Sublime

We learn from history that democracy has commonly put a premium on conventionality. By its nature, it prefers those who keep step with the slowest march of thought and frowns on those who may disturb the "conspiracy for mutual inefficiency." Thereby, this system of government tends to result in the triumph of mediocrity, and entails the exclusion

When Tiberius persuaded them to vote out of office the tribune who opposed him, his argument went along the lines of ‘if the people’s tribune no longer does what the people want, then he should be deposed’. That raised an issue still familiar in modern electoral systems. Are Members of Parliament, for example, to be seen as delegates of the voters,

The focus on consumption allows for a comforting sidestepping of the other issue raised by Attalus’ teaching, as described by Seneca: politics. Who is the real king, and where does his authority come from? If the Stoic philosopher can call himself a “king” and become able to pass judgment on merely worldly rulers, what implications might this have

is always better to admire the best among our foes rather than the worst among our friends. Wouldn’t you agree, Commandant?

“epithets for the self.” Among his were: Upright. Modest. Straightforward. Sane. Cooperative. These were, then, the traits that served him well as emperor.

Foreigners like to talk about the hexarchs’ tyranny. It is, however, a tyranny that feeds people and gives them work and allows them pleasure. Unless you’re a heretic, that is. But someone always has to pay the price.”