The Wisdom of Cicero: 20 Inspirational Quotes from the Roman Philosopher and Orator

Cicero, a Roman statesman, philosopher, and orator, is regarded as one of the greatest figures in ancient Roman history. His eloquence, rhetorical skill, and profound intellectual contributions have left an indelible mark on Western philosophy and political thought. Cicero’s writings encompass a wide range of topics, including politics, ethics, law, and the nature of human existence. Known for his adherence to Stoic philosophy and commitment to public service, Cicero’s words continue to inspire and provoke contemplation. Here are a few quotes attributed to Cicero:

1. “The safety of the people shall be the highest law.”
2. “In times of war, the law falls silent.”
3. “Friendship improves happiness and abates misery by doubling our joy and dividing our grief.”
4. “Silence is one of the great arts of conversation.”
5. “It is the peculiar quality of a fool to perceive the faults of others and to forget his own.”
6. “The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt.”
7. “The function of wisdom is to discriminate between good and evil.”
8. “No one can give you better advice than yourself.”
9. “The beginnings of all things are small.”
10. “He only employs his passion who can make no use of his reason.”
11. “A home without books is a body without soul.”
12. “If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.”
13. “To be content with what we possess is the greatest and most secure of riches.”
14. “To live is to think.”
15. “What is morally wrong can never be advantageous, even when it enables you to make some gain that you believe to be to your advantage.”
16. “Nature has placed mankind under the government of two sovereign masters: pain and pleasure.”
17. “The pursuit, even of the best things, ought to be calm and tranquil.”
18. “Not to know what happened before you were born is to be forever a child.”
19. “To be free is nothing, to become free is everything.”
20. “The welfare of the people is the highest law.”

These quotes reflect Cicero’s wisdom, his appreciation for knowledge, and his emphasis on virtue and moral character. Cicero’s writings and ideas continue to resonate with contemporary readers, offering insights into human nature, the pursuit of wisdom, and the importance of civic engagement.