Ability Quote by Pericles
“In private matters everyone is equal before the law. In public matters, when it is a question of putting power and responsibility into the hands of one man rather than another, what counts is not rank or money, but the ability to do the job well.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Funeral Oration, Athens, 431 BC
Equality before law applies privately, but public roles require competence over status or wealth.
In simple terms: Law treats everyone alike; leadership needs skill.
Key Takeaway
Choose capable leaders, not just powerful ones.
Themes
justice
leadership
meritocracy
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- government appointments
- public office elections
- policy making
- organizational hiring
Key Concepts
political philosophy
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we measure ability fairly?
- What safeguards prevent nepotism?
A Different Perspective
Competence may be hard to assess objectively, leading to bias.
