Skip to content

Compact Quote by Epicurus

“Justice... is a kind of compact not to harm or be harmed.” quote by Epicurus
Download Open image
“Justice... is a kind of compact not to harm or be harmed.”

Epicurus

About This Quote

Source Letter to Menoeceus, circa 340 BC

Justice is a mutual agreement to avoid harming each other, forming a social compact.

In simple terms: Justice means agreeing not to harm one another.

Key Takeaway

Uphold mutual respect and non‑harm.

Themes

ethics social contract non‑violence cooperation philosophy

Mood

thoughtful ethical reflective

Type

philosophical ethical social

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • conflict resolution
  • legal systems

Key Concepts

moral philosophy ancient Greek thought human relations

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can power dynamics affect fairness?
  • What mechanisms enforce the compact?
A Different Perspective

The view may overlook power imbalances in agreements.

2.2 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Epicurus

Explore all 209 Epicurus quotes

More Compact quotes

Browse all 165 Compact quotes