Plato on politics

If you do not take an interest in the affairs of your government, then you are doomed to live under the rule of fools.

~ Plato

Governor William Bradford on how common ownership of property failed at Plymouth Plantation

At last after much debate of things, the governor gave way that they should set corn everyman for his own particular... That had very good success for it made all hands very industrious, so much [more] corn was planted than otherwise would have been ... The experience that has had in this common course and condition, tried sundrie years, and that amongst Godly and sober men, may well evince the Vanities of the conceit of Plato's and other ancients, applauded by some of later times; that the taking away of propertie, and bringing into commone wealth, would make them happy and flourishing, as if they were wiser than God.

~ Governor William Bradford, Of Plimouth Plantation: 1620-1647 (1650)

Pilgrim Tercentenary
Signing of the Compact
1620-1920

Plato on speaking and listening

Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools because they have to say something.

~ Plato (428 BC-348 BC)

Plato on politics

Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.

~ Plato (428 BC-348 BC)

Plato on justice

Justice in the life and conduct of the State is possible only as first it resides in the hearts and souls of the citizens.

~ Plato (428 BC-348 BC)