Skip to content

Alexander Quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero

“Lucius Cassius ille quem populus Romanus verissimum et sapientissimum iudicem putabat identidem in causis quaerere solebat 'cui bono' fuisset. The famous Lucius Cassius, whom the Roman people used to regard as a very honest and wise judge, was in the habit of asking, time and again, 'To whose…” quote by Marcus Tullius Cicero
Download Open image
“Lucius Cassius ille quem populus Romanus verissimum et sapientissimum iudicem putabat identidem in causis quaerere solebat 'cui bono' fuisset. The famous Lucius Cassius, whom the Roman people used to regard as a very honest and wise judge, was in the habit of asking, time and again, 'To whose benefit?”

Marcus Tullius Cicero

About This Quote

The quote highlights the principle of examining who benefits from an action to uncover true motives and assess fairness.

In simple terms: Assess motives by asking who benefits.

Key Takeaway

Identify hidden interests.

Themes

critical thinking justice motivation ethics law

Mood

inquisitive analytical

Type

maxim advice

When to use this quote

  • legal deliberations
  • policy evaluation
  • organizational decision‑making
  • media criticism
  • personal conflict resolution

Key Concepts

benefit analysis judicial prudence

Practical Applications

  • policy analysis
  • ethical auditing

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who might be advantaged by this decision?
  • How does benefit‑bias affect fairness?
4.1 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Marcus Tullius Cicero

Explore all 1,068 Marcus Tullius Cicero quotes

More Alexander quotes

Browse all 230 Alexander quotes