In private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
TacitusRead
The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
Interpretation
What this quote means
A corrupt government often seeks to control through excessive legislation.
This quote by Tacitus suggests that as a society becomes more corrupt, there tends to be an increase in the number of laws, potentially as a means for those in power to maintain their control and manipulate the populace. It reflects a cynical view of governance, indicating that such an environment relies on complex legal frameworks to legitimize its actions rather than fostering genuine justice or morality.
Themes
CorruptionLawsGovernmentPowerControl
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech on the importance of ethical leadership.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βGreat empires are not maintained by timidity.
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Things are not to be judged good or bad merely because the public think so.
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So obscure are the greatest events, as some take for granted any hearsay, whatever its source, others turn truth into falsehood, and both errors find encouragement with posterity.
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The brave and bold persist even against fortune; the timid and cowardly rush to despair though fear alone.
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If you would know who controls you see who you may not criticise.
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