Against the Sophists (21-22)

And yet those who desire to follow the true precepts of this discipline may, if they will, be helped more speedily towards honesty of character[*] than towards facility in oratory. And let no one suppose that I claim that just living can be taught;[*] for, in a word, I hold that there does not exist an art of the kind which can implant sobriety and justice in depraved natures. Nevertheless, I do think that the study of political discourse can help more than any other thing to stimulate and form such qualities of character.

But in order that I may not appear to be breaking down the pretensions of others while myself making greater claims than are within my powers, I believe that the very arguments by which I myself was convinced will make it clear to others also that these things are true.