The error of Socrates must be attributed to the false notion of unity from which he starts. Unity there should be, both of the family and of the state, but in some respects only. For there is a point at... ...
The good lawgiver should inquire how states and races of men and communities may participate in a good life, and in the happiness which is attainable by them.
One citizen differs from another, but the salvation of the community is the common business of them all. This community is the constitution; the virtue of the citizen must therefore be relative to the constitution of which he is a... ...
It's clearly better for property to be privately owned, but for its use to be shared; and the main job of the lawgiver is to create this kind and generous attitude in people.
Every community is an association of some kind and every community is established with a view to some good; for everyone always acts in order to obtain that which they think good. But, if all communities aim at some good,... ...
