The spirit of such changes, though avoiding the extravagance of a popular assembly, being only so much change as the conservative temper of old members is likely to allow, is nevertheless inconsistent with the fixedness of Egypt which Plato wishes to impress upon Hellenic institutions.

He is inconsistent with himself as the truth begins to dawn upon him that 'in the execution things for the most part fall short of our conception of them' (Republic).
And is not this true of ideals of government in general?
We are always disappointed in them.

Nothing great can be accomplished in the short space of human life; wherefore also we look forward to another (Republic).

As we grow old, we are sensible that we have no power actively to pursue our ideals any longer.

We have had our opportunity and do not aspire to be more than men: we have received our 'wages and are going home.' Neither do we despair of the future of mankind, because we have been able to do so little in comparison of the whole.