Plutarch: 'Medicine to produce health must examine disease; and music, to create harmony must investigate discord.'

Medicine to produce health must examine disease; and music, to create harmony must investigate discord.

In his thought-provoking quote, Plutarch draws parallels between medicine and music, suggesting that an understanding of disease is essential for producing health, just as investigating discord is necessary for creating musical harmony. At first glance, this quote holds a straightforward meaning: to achieve a desired outcome, whether it be physical well-being or harmonic melodies, one must first comprehend the fundamental aspects that stand in opposition to these ideals. Indeed, this notion may seem obvious, but when delving deeper into its underlying philosophical concept, the quote sparks an intriguing discussion on the nature of balance and the role of contrast in various aspects of life.To truly grasp the significance of Plutarch's quote, it is essential to consider the unexpected philosophical concept that lies within it, namely the concept of the unity of opposites. This concept, rooted in ancient Greek philosophy and later explored by thinkers such as Heraclitus and Hegel, posits that contradictory elements are not completely separate entities but interconnected and necessary for one another's existence. By juxtaposing the realms of medicine and music, Plutarch implies that harmony and health cannot thrive without acknowledging and understanding the opposing forces that inherently exist within them.When viewing this quote through the lens of the unity of opposites, one can appreciate the intricate web woven between disease and health. Medicine, as a discipline, attains its purpose through a thorough examination of disease. An accurate understanding of illnesses, their causes, symptoms, and manifestations, empowers medical practitioners to devise effective treatments and preventative measures. Without this knowledge of the discordant aspects of the human body, the pursuit of health would be incomplete and ultimately futile.Similarly, the concept of disharmony serves as the foundation for the creation of musical harmony. Musicians skillfully weave contrasting notes and chords together, creating tension and release, dissonance and consonance, leading to a harmonious composition that captivates the ears and hearts of listeners. Without the presence of discord, music would lack depth and intrigue. It is precisely the investigation and understanding of discord that allows musicians to manipulate sound to produce an emotionally resonant and aesthetically pleasing experience.Expanding beyond the realms of medicine and music, the quote by Plutarch encourages us to reflect on the broader implications of balance and contrast in our lives. Just as health and harmony necessitate an acknowledgment of their opposing elements, personal growth often emerges from navigating through difficulties and embracing contrasting experiences. Adversity and challenges provide us with the opportunity to learn, develop resilience, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.Ultimately, Plutarch's quote reminds us that in our pursuit of wholeness, whether in the realms of medicine, music, or life as a whole, it is essential to acknowledge and investigate the opposing forces that accompany our desired ideals. The unity of opposites challenges us to recognize the importance of balance and contrast, as they contribute to the richness, depth, and ultimate fulfillment we can experience. So, let us embrace the discord in our lives, for it is through embracing and understanding it that we can uncover the true harmony and well-being that we seek.