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Beast Quote by Hesiod

“...Perses, hear me out on justice, and take what I have to say to heart; cease thinking of violence. For the son of Kronos, Zeus, has ordained this law to men: that fishes and wild beasts and winged birds should devour one another, since there is no justice in them; but to mankind he gave justice…” quote by Hesiod
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“...Perses, hear me out on justice, and take what I have to say to heart; cease thinking of violence. For the son of Kronos, Zeus, has ordained this law to men: that fishes and wild beasts and winged birds should devour one another, since there is no justice in them; but to mankind he gave justice which proves for the best.”

Hesiod

About This Quote

Source Poem: Works and Days, Hesiod, c. 700 BC

Justice is a divine gift to humans, unlike the natural law of predation among animals.

In simple terms: Humans receive justice, animals do not.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and uphold human justice.

Themes

justice divine order human nature

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • lawmaking
  • education
  • conflict resolution
  • environmental policy

Key Concepts

ethics theology natural law

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does society enforce justice beyond natural instincts?
  • What responsibilities arise from possessing justice?
A Different Perspective

Human justice can be compromised by power and bias.

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