Expression Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
“Can you also, Lucullus, affirm that there is any power united with wisdom and prudence which has made, or, to use your own expression, manufactured man? What sort of a manufacture is that? Where is it exercised? when? why? how?”
About This Quote
Source Speech: De Re Publica, Book III, 45 BC
He questions whether wisdom and prudence can truly guide human actions, probing the nature and limits of rational power.
In simple terms: He doubts if wisdom truly directs human behavior.
Key Takeaway
Examine the role of reason versus other forces in decisions.
Themes
philosophy
reason
human nature
Mood
reflective
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- ethical dilemmas
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
rationalism
ethical inquiry
Questions to Reflect On
- Is wisdom sufficient for good governance?
- What other forces shape human action?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone may not account for emotional or irrational influences.
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![“I prefer silent prudence to loquacious folly. [Lat., Malo indisertam prudentiam, quam loquacem stultitiam.]” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/608/marcus-tullius-cicero-157_folly_i-prefer-silent-prudence-to-loquacious-f_2312107.jpg)
![“Things sacred should not only be touched with the hands, but unviolated in thought. [Lat., Res sacros non modo manibus attingi, sed ne cogitatione quidem violari fas fuit.]” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/deb/marcus-tullius-cicero-157_hands_things-sacred-should-not-only-be-touched_11960.jpg)
