17. He thought that thus fear would act as a curb on lust…
““17. He thought that thus fear would act as a curb on lust, and that lust being curbed would not run riot in luxury, and that luxury being prevented avarice would be at an end; and that these vices being banished, virtue would flourish and increase the great profit of the state; and liberty, the fit companion of virtue, would abide unfettered.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
He argues that fear curbs lust, which prevents luxury, avarice, and vice, allowing virtue and liberty to thrive for the state's benefit.
In simple terms: Fear restrains desire, leading to virtue and freedom.
Key Takeaway
Control desire to protect society.
Themes
virtue
freedom
political philosophy
morality
statecraft
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government policy
- personal conduct
- economic planning
- legal reform
Key Concepts
virtueism
political theory
social order
Questions to Reflect On
- Can fear be a sustainable regulator?
- What alternatives exist to curb excess?
A Different Perspective
If fear is suppressed, lust may still dominate.