"The man who has never been flogged has never been taught." - Menander

In the annals of human history, wisdom often emerges from the crucibles of experience, and nowhere is this more evident than in the ancient adage attributed to the Greek playwright Menander: "The man who has never been flogged has never been taught." This aphorism, though stark in its wording, encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of learning, discipline, and the human condition. At its core, the statement suggests that meaningful growth often arises from adversity, that the lessons of life are not merely imparted through gentle instruction but are sometimes seared into the consciousness through hardship, pain, or struggle. Menander's words resonate across centuries, reminding us that the most enduring lessons are those that come at a cost. Whether interpreted literally or metaphorically, this phrase invites reflection on the ways in which society imparts knowledge and discipline—whether through formal education, personal trials, or societal expectations. It challenges the notion of passive learning, insisting instead that true wisdom is forged in the fires of experience, however harsh they may be.