Marcus Tullius Cicero

Virtue Begins With the Desire for Goodness

Nevertheless, Cicero’s view invites debate about the sufficiency of intention alone. Critics might recall Hannah Arendt’s reflections on the ‘banality of evil’—where ordinary people, despite professing good intentions, contributed to grave wrongs. Thus, while desiring good is necessary, it must be paired with wisdom and action to form a robust moral life, reminding us that virtue demands both heart and deed. [...]

Growth Through Adversity: Cicero’s Path to Strength and Wisdom

In contemporary society, Cicero’s wisdom finds fresh relevance. Whether facing professional setbacks or personal loss, individuals now recognize adversity as an opportunity for self-improvement rather than defeat. The growing popularity of growth mindset—a psychological concept popularized by Carol Dweck—invites us to treat challenges as opportunities for learning, not barriers. Returning to Cicero’s insight, we are reminded that our greatest sources of strength and clarity often emerge from our most difficult trials. [...]

The Spirit Is the True Self - Marcus Tullius Cicero

As a Roman statesman and philosopher, Cicero was influenced by Stoic and Platonic thought, which stressed inner virtue and the development of the soul as the path to a meaningful life. [...]

To Know What You Prefer Instead of Your Friends' Opinions Is a Great Art - Marcus Tullius Cicero

Marcus Tullius Cicero, a Roman statesman and philosopher, was known for his writings on rhetoric, ethics, and governance. His emphasis on independent thought reflects the Stoic and humanist ideals that influenced his philosophy. [...]

The Higher We Are Placed, The More Humbly We Should Walk - Marcus Tullius Cicero

Marcus Tullius Cicero was a Roman statesman, orator, and philosopher. His writings often focused on ethics, politics, and the qualities of good governance, making humility a recurrent theme in his teachings. [...]

To Begin Is Half the Work - Marcus Tullius Cicero

Cicero, a Roman statesman and philosopher, often wrote about diligence and human effort. This quote reflects his belief in human agency and the progress we achieve through deliberate, step-by-step actions. [...]

Gratitude: The Parent of All Virtues - Marcus Tullius Cicero

Marcus Tullius Cicero was a Roman statesman and philosopher who lived from 106-43 B.C. His writings on ethics, politics, and human nature have had a profound influence on Western thought, including the importance of virtues in society. [...]