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This is the part of a great man, after he has maturely…

“This is the part of a great man, after he has maturely weighed all circumstances, to punish the guilty, to spare the many, and in every state of fortune not to depart from an upright, virtuous conduct.” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
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“This is the part of a great man, after he has maturely weighed all circumstances, to punish the guilty, to spare the many, and in every state of fortune not to depart from an upright, virtuous conduct.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A virtuous leader must balance justice and mercy, punishing the guilty while protecting the innocent, regardless of personal fortunes.

In simple terms: Good leaders punish wrongdoers and protect many, staying moral in all times.

Key Takeaway

Uphold justice and mercy equally.

Themes

justice leadership morality virtue balance

Mood

reflective serious thoughtful

Type

advice philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • court rulings
  • government policy
  • corporate governance
  • community mediation
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy civic duty virtue ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you ensure fairness when punishing?
  • When does mercy become neglect?
A Different Perspective

May be hard to assess guilt accurately, risking unfair punishment.

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