The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
The persecution of genius fosters its influence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Challenging exceptional talent can ultimately enhance its impact on society.
Tacitus suggests that when genius is persecuted or opposed, it paradoxically increases the influence that genius has on the world. This reflects the idea that adversity can serve to amplify the worth and reach of brilliant ideas and individuals, pushing them to make even greater contributions and to inspire others despite their struggles.
Themes
PersecutionGeniusInfluenceAdversityStrength
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about innovation and the challenges faced by inventors.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
TacitusRead
Great empires are not maintained by timidity.
TacitusRead
Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
TacitusRead
So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
TacitusRead
The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
TacitusRead
Similar quotes
The rare individuals who unselfishly try to serve others have an enormous advantage-they have little competition.
Andrew CarnegieRead
Whose work is it but your own to open your eyes? But indeed the business of the universe is to make such a fool out of you that you will know yourself for one, and begin to be wise.
George MacdonaldRead
The trust of the innocent is the liar's most useful tool.
Stephen KingRead
It is not the brains that matter most, but that which guides them β the character, the heart, generous qualities, progressive ideas.
Fyodor DostoevskyRead
However, if we wish to be compassionate with our fellow man, we must learn to engage in dispassionate analysis. In other words, thinking with our hearts, rather than our brains, is a surefire method to hurt those whom we wish to help.
Walter E. WilliamsRead
The foolish are like ripples on water, For whatsoever they do is quickly effaced; But the righteous are like carvings upon stone, For their smallest act is durable.
HoraceRead