Meaning: The quote "The Athenians are right to accept advice from anyone, since it is incumbent on everyone to share in that sort of excellence, or else there can be no city at all" by Protagoras, a pre-Socratic Greek philosopher, encapsulates the essence of his philosophical perspective on the importance of knowledge and expertise within a functioning society. Protagoras is renowned for his relativistic approach to truth and his belief in the importance of education and the pursuit of knowledge for the betterment of individuals and the community as a whole.

In this quote, Protagoras emphasizes the idea that the sharing of knowledge and expertise is essential for the well-being and prosperity of a city or a community. He argues that it is the responsibility of every individual to contribute to the collective excellence of the city by sharing their knowledge and learning from others. The acceptance of advice from anyone, regardless of their social status or background, is seen as a fundamental aspect of fostering a thriving and harmonious society.

Protagoras' perspective challenges the traditional hierarchical structure of knowledge and expertise, which often privileged the wisdom of the elite or the ruling class. Instead, he advocates for a more inclusive approach, where the wisdom and insights of every member of the community are valued and considered essential for the city's success. This egalitarian view of knowledge and expertise aligns with the democratic principles that were emerging in ancient Athens during Protagoras' time.

Furthermore, Protagoras' emphasis on the importance of shared excellence highlights his belief in the power of education and continuous learning. He suggests that for a city to prosper, every individual must actively engage in the pursuit of knowledge and strive for excellence in their respective fields. This notion not only promotes intellectual growth but also fosters a sense of collective responsibility for the well-being of the community.

Protagoras' ideas also have implications for the concept of citizenship and civic engagement. By asserting that everyone should share in the pursuit of excellence, he is advocating for active participation and contribution to the betterment of the city. This aligns with the democratic ideals of ancient Athens, where the involvement of all citizens in the affairs of the city was considered crucial for its success.

Moreover, Protagoras' view challenges the notion of expertise as a privilege reserved for a select few. Instead, he promotes the idea that expertise and knowledge should be accessible to all members of society, and that everyone has a valuable contribution to make. This inclusive approach to knowledge empowers individuals and promotes a sense of agency and responsibility for the collective welfare of the city.

In conclusion, Protagoras' quote conveys a profound insight into the significance of shared knowledge and excellence for the flourishing of a city. His ideas promote inclusivity, active participation, and the pursuit of continuous learning as essential elements of a thriving community. By emphasizing the importance of accepting advice from anyone and sharing in the pursuit of excellence, Protagoras advocates for a more egalitarian and participatory approach to knowledge and expertise, which continues to resonate in discussions about education, citizenship, and the functioning of a democratic society.