The more corrupt the state, the more numerous the laws.
TacitusRead
Secure against the designs of men, secure against the malignity of the Gods, they have accomplished a thing of infinite difficulty; that to them nothing remains even to be wished.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the idea of achieving a state of security that nullifies desire and ambition.
Tacitus suggests that achieving absolute security, free from both human intentions and divine malevolence, leads to a state of existence where nothing is left to long for or desire. This points to the paradox of ultimate security, which may result in a lack of aspiration or purpose.
Themes
SecurityDesireAspirationHumanityPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
During a philosophical discussion on the nature of security and happiness.
More from Tacitus
All quotes βIn private enterprises men may advance or recede, whereas they who aim at empire have no alternative between the highest success and utter downfall.
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Great 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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