To be treated or never be ill
SocratesWhich of these, then, is finest?
PolusWhich do you mean?
SocratesMoney-making, medicine, the penalty.
PolusThe penalty, Socrates, by far.
SocratesSo, once again, if it is indeed finest, it produces either the most pleasure or benefit or both?
PolusYes.
SocratesNow, is being treated pleasant, and are those who are being treated glad?
PolusI don’t think so.
SocratesBut it is beneficial, at least. Isn’t it so?
PolusYes.
SocratesFor one is rid of a great evil, so it pays to endure the pain and be healthy.
PolusHow could it not?
SocratesThen, as far as the body goes, would a person be happiest this way, by being treated, or by not even being ill in the first place?
PolusClearly by not even being ill.
SocratesFor happiness, it seems, was not this—being rid of evil—but never acquiring it in the first place.
PolusThat is so.