It is scarcely possible that the eyes of contemporaries should discover in the public bliss the latent causes of decay and corruption. This long peace, and the uniform government of the Romans, introduced a slow and secret poison into the vitals of the Empire. The minds of men were gradually reduced to the same level, the fire of genius extinguished, and even the military spirit evaporated. From long ago, when we sold our vote to no man, the People have long since abdicated our duties and cast off our cares; we who once bestowed military command, high civil office, legions and all else, now meddle no more and long eagerly for just two things -- bread and circuses."
-- Juvenal, Satire X (2nd century AD)
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)