Plautus: 'The evil that we know is best.'

The evil that we know is best.

"The evil that we know is best." This quote by Plautus, an ancient Roman playwright, encapsulates an interesting perspective on human behavior. At its core, the quote suggests that familiarity with evil is preferable to the uncertainty of the unknown. While this idea may initially seem counterintuitive or even controversial, it highlights a fundamental aspect of human psychology – our instinctive inclination towards the familiar and the comfort it brings.When confronted with different choices or situations, humans often hesitate to venture into the unknown. This could be due to fear of the potential consequences or a desire to maintain stability in their lives. The quote implies that even if the known choice or situation is not ideal or may have negative aspects, we are more inclined to gravitate towards it because we are already familiar with its dimensions. There is a sense of predictability that gives us a semblance of control and allows us to navigate through life with a certain level of certainty.The importance of the quote lies in its capacity to remind us of the intricacies of our decision-making processes. Plautus subtly suggests that while venturing into unfamiliar territories may hold opportunities for growth and improvement, there is an underlying allure towards what we already know, despite its flaws. It is this dichotomy between the promise of progress and the comfort of familiarity that shapes our approach to life's choices.Philosophically, the quote can be linked to the concept of the "status quo bias." This concept suggests that individuals tend to prefer things to stay the same or remain as they are, as opposed to embracing change. The underlying psychological explanation for this bias is rooted in the fear of uncertainty and the potential risks associated with stepping outside our comfort zones. This bias manifests in various aspects of life, including relationships, career choices, and even political ideologies.By drawing this philosophical connection, we begin to understand the depth and complexity of Plautus' quote. It prompts us to reflect on the balance between our desire for stability and our aspirations for personal growth. It raises important questions about whether clinging to the known, despite its imperfections, can hinder our ability to explore the uncharted territories where transformative experiences may reside.However, it is crucial to recognize that the quote is not an endorsement of evil or an excuse to justify immoral actions. Rather, it tries to explain the psychological tendency to prefer the familiar over the unfamiliar. The evil being referred to here could be interpreted as any negative aspect or situation in our lives. It serves as a metaphorical representation of circumstances that we might have become accustomed to or have grown to accept, even if they are not necessarily good for us.In conclusion, Plautus' quote reminds us of the human inclination to gravitate towards what is known, even in the face of the unknown and potential improvement. It sheds light on the inherent tension between familiarity and growth, reminding us of the complexities and paradoxes within our decision-making processes. By contemplating the philosophical concept of the status quo bias, we gain deeper insights into our behavior and the internal struggles that often shape our actions. Ultimately, understanding and acknowledging this aspect of our psyche can help us make more informed and conscious choices, ensuring that we strike a balance between the comfort of the known and the transformative power of the unknown.