Top 10 quotes by Cicero - Motto Quote

Top 10 quotes by Cicero - Motto Quote

Marcus Tullius Cicero was a Roman statesman, lawyer, philosopher, and orator, known for his eloquent speeches and writings. He was one of the most influential figures of the late Roman Republic and his works continue to be studied and admired to this day. Here are the top 10 quotes by Cicero:

 

1. "The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living."

        This quote emphasizes the importance of remembering and honoring those who have passed away, as their legacy can live on through the memories of others.

The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.

2. "It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character, and judgment."

        This quote suggests that true greatness comes not from physical abilities, but from mental strength and the ability to make wise decisions.

It is not by muscle, speed, or physical dexterity that great things are achieved, but by reflection, force of character, and judgment.

3. "If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need."

        This quote highlights the importance of intellectual pursuits and the natural world in finding joy and contentment in life.

If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.

4. "The safety of the people shall be the highest law."

        This quote emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the well-being of society as a whole, over the interests of individuals or groups.

The safety of the people shall be the highest law.

5. "The eyes are useless when the mind is blind."

        This quote suggests that our perception of the world is heavily influenced by our mindset and beliefs, and that we must strive for clarity and objectivity in our thinking.

The eyes are useless when the mind is blind.

6. "The more laws, the less justice."

        This quote suggests that an excessive amount of laws can actually hinder true justice, as it can create a confusing and bureaucratic system.

The more laws, the less justice.

7. "Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others."

        This quote emphasizes the importance of cultivating a grateful attitude in life, as it can lead to the development of other positive traits and behaviors.

Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues, but the parent of all others.

8. "To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child."

        This quote highlights the importance of studying history and learning from the past, in order to grow and develop as individuals and societies.

To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child.

9. "The authority of those who teach is often an obstacle to those who want to learn."

        This quote suggests that blind obedience to authority can actually hinder the pursuit of knowledge and growth, and that it is important to question and challenge our teachers and leaders in order to truly learn and understand.

The authority of those who teach is often an obstacle to those who want to learn.

10. "The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed, lest Rome will become bankrupt."

        This quote highlights the importance of responsible financial management in maintaining the stability and prosperity of a society, and suggests that excessive spending and foreign aid can be detrimental to the well-being of a nation.

The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed, lest Rome will become bankrupt.

 

These quotes demonstrate Cicero's wisdom and his appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. They serve as a reminder of the importance of cultivating a love of learning and a grateful attitude towards life, as well as the role that these virtues play in the development of a well-lived life.