We do not say that a man who takes no interest in public affairs is a man who minds his own business. We say he has no business being here at all.
PericlesI am of opinion that national greatness is more for the advantage of private citizens, than any individual well-being coupled with public humiliation. A man may be personally ever so well off, and yet if his country be ruined he must be ruined with it; whereas a flourishing commonwealth always affords chances of salvation to unfortunate individuals.
PericlesIf Athens shall appear great to you, consider then that her glories were purchased by valiant men, and by men who learned their duty.
Pericles