[12]
and do not hold the view that while diligence is of use in all other matters it is of no avail to make us better and wiser; and do not deem us, the human kind, so unfortunate that, although in dealing with wild beasts we have discovered arts by which we tame their spirits and increase their worth, yet in our own case we are powerless to help ourselves in the pursuit of virtue.1 On the contrary, be convinced that education and diligence are in the highest degree potent to improve our nature,
1 This thought and comparison is elaborated with verbal echoes from here in Isoc. 15.209-214. Cf. the debate on whether virtue can be taught: Theog. 429; Xen. Mem. 1.2.19 ff.; Plat. Meno 95e. A conservative opinion is expressed on the question by Isocrates in Isoc. 15.209-214.