It is clear, then, that according to the most authoritative opinion wisdom is the greatest of goods. We ought, therefore, not to flee philosophy, if it is, as we think, the acquisition and use of wisdom, and wisdom is among the greatest goods; and if in pursuit of gain we run many risks by sailing to the pillars of Hercules, we should not shrink from labour or expense in the pursuit of wisdom. Indeed, it is the part of a slave to desire life rather than the good life, to follow the opinions of the many instead of expecting the many to follow one’s own, to seek gain and pay no heed whatever to what is noble. (Protrepticus)
