The peoples of the Mediterranean began to emerge from barbarism when they learned to cultivate the olive and the vine.
ThucydidesRead
Right, as the world goes, is only in question between equals in power, while the strong do what they can and the weak suffer what they must.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Justice and morality can be subjective and often depend on the power dynamics between individuals or groups.
This quote by Thucydides highlights the idea that concepts of right and wrong are often determined by those in positions of power. In a world where power disparities exist, the strong impose their will while the weak are left to endure the consequences, illustrating that justice may not be an absolute principle but rather a reflection of social hierarchies and power relationships.
Themes
PowerJusticeInequalityStrengthMoralitySuffering
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a debate about social justice and the impact of power dynamics.
More from Thucydides
All quotes →We Greeks are lovers of the beautiful, yet simple in our tastes, and we cultivate the mind without loss of manliness.
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If it had not been for the pernicious power of envy, men would not so have exalted vengeance above innocence and profit above justice... in these acts of revenge on others, men take it upon themselves to begin the process of repealing those general laws of humanity which are there to give a hope of salvation to all who are in distress.
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Thucydides, an Athenian, wrote the history of the war between the Peloponnesians and the Athenians, he began at the moment that it broke out, believing that it would be a great war, and more memorable than any that had preceded it.
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Some legislators only wish to vengeance against a particular enemy. Others only look out for themselves. They devote very little time on the consideration of any public issue. They think that no harm will come from their neglect. They act as if it is always the business of somebody else to look after this or that. When this selfish notion is entertained by all, the commonwealth slowly begins to decay.
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Remember that this greatness was won by men with courage, with knowledge of their duty, and with a sense of honor in action.
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