Quotes Library

July 7, 2025

The conduct of a wise politician is ever suited to the present posture of affairs; often by foregoing a part he saves a whole, and by yielding in a small matter secures a greater.

Plutarch (46–119 AD), Greek philosopher, biographer, Parallel Lives, “Poplicola and Solon Compared”

When did you last cede some small thing to an opponent, thereby achieving some greater purpose? Or are you one of those tough, uncompromising s.o.bs.?

It is just such individuals who don’t understand—or care—that democracy depends on give and take?


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