Friendship is the only thing in the world concerning the usefulness of which all mankind are agreed.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
I add this, that rational ability without education has oftener raised man to glory and virtue, than education without natural ability.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Natural talent can lead to greater achievements than education alone.
This quote by Cicero emphasizes the importance of innate abilities in achieving greatness and moral integrity, suggesting that while education is valuable, it is not the sole determinant of success. A person with natural aptitude and talent can surpass those who may have formal education but lack the same level of inherent capability.
Themes
EducationNatural AbilitySuccessTalentGlory
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the value of talent in professional success.
More from Marcus Tullius Cicero
All quotes βThose wars are unjust which are undertaken without provocation. For only a war waged for revenge or defence can actually be just.
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Orators are most vehement when their cause is weak.
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Nothing contributes to the entertainment of the reader more, than the change of times and the vicissitudes of fortune.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
No one has the right to be sorry for himself for a misfortune that strikes everyone.
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Advice in old age is foolish; for what can be more absurd than to increase our provisions for the road the nearer we approach to our journey's end.
Marcus Tullius CiceroRead
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