Universality Of Virtues

Meno is surprised by Socrates' admission, as he and many others believe they understand what virtue is. Meno states that virtue differs depending on one's role: men are virtuous if they manage the city well, women if they manage the household effectively, and children if they exhibit appropriate behavior. Socrates challenges this view, arguing that virtue must be defined in a way that is universal and applicable to all people, regardless of their specific roles or circumstances. He uses the analogy of bees: while individual bees may differ, they are all bees because of their shared essence.