Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
God's law is 'right reason.' When perfectly understood it is called 'wisdom.' When applied by government in regulating human relations it is called 'justice.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Cicero suggests that divine law translates into human wisdom and justice through rational understanding and application.
This quote by Cicero emphasizes the connection between divine law, wisdom, and justice in human society. He posits that true understanding of God's law is rooted in 'right reason,' and when this understanding is implemented in governance, it manifests as justice, guiding human interactions towards a moral and ethical order.
Themes
LawWisdomJusticeReasonGovernment
In practice
Example use cases
In discussions about ethics in law, this quote could be referenced to highlight the importance of reason and morality in legal frameworks.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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