Cicero (on the Stoics) · 106–43 BCE
On Duties 2.22 — Cicero (on the Stoics)
Translation by Walter Miller (1913)
Cicero (on the Stoics), On Duties 2.22
For things are in a bad way, when that which should be obtained by merit is attempted by money. But since recourse to this kind of support is sometimes indispensable, I shall explain how it should be employed; but first I shall discuss those qualities which are more closely allied to merit. Now, it is by various motives that people are led to submit to another's authority and power: they may be influenced (1) by good-will; (2) by gratitude for generous favours conferred upon them; (3) by the eminence of that other's social position or by the hope that their submission will turn to their own account; (4) by fear that they may be compelled perforce to submit; (5) they may be captivated by the hope of gifts of money and by liberal promises; or, finally, (6) they may be bribed with money, as we have frequently seen in our own country.
Cite this passage
Cicero (on the Stoics), On Duties 2.22, tr. Walter Miller (1913)
https://whatwouldstoicsdo.com/passage/on-duties/2.22
Cicero, On Duties (De Officiis), tr. Walter Miller (Loeb, 1913). Text: Perseus Digital Library (CC BY-SA 4.0). Sources and licences
In plain English
AI-written notesIt is a bad sign when what should be earned on merit is bought with money, though such payments are sometimes unavoidable. People submit to another's authority out of goodwill, gratitude, respect for rank, fear, hope of gain or bribery.
Older wording
- “perforce”
- — by necessity, unavoidably
- “eminence”
- — high standing
Themes and situations
- Justice and fairness
- Leadership and power
- Reputation and others' opinions
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