Bears Quote by Thucydides
“A private man, however successful in his own dealing, if his country perish is involved in her destruction; but if he be an unprosperous citizen of a prosperous city, he is much more likely to recover. Seeing, then, that States can bear the misfortunes of individuals, but individuals cannot bear the misfortunes of States, let us all stand by our country.”
About This Quote
Source History: History of the Peloponnesian War, Book 1, 5th century BC
The passage contrasts personal success with national collapse, urging loyalty to the state because individuals cannot survive its downfall alone.
In simple terms: People thrive when their country thrives; stay loyal.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize national stability over personal gain.
Themes
politics
loyalty
statehood
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
historical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- citizen duty
- public policy
- war strategy
Key Concepts
collective responsibility
nationalism
individual vs state
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities do citizens have to their nation?
- How balance personal and national interests?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on state may suppress individual rights.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)
