We do not get into a state with our next-door neighbour if he enjoys himself in his own way, nor do we shoot him the kind of black looks which, though they do no real harm, still vex an honest man. We are free and open in our political life; in our private lives we are not suspicious of one another, and do not get angry with our neighbour for acting as he pleases, nor do we cast sour looks at him, which though harmless, are unpleasant.
— Pericles Ancient

Athenian statesman

Share:

Details

Context

From Thucydides' 'History of the Peloponnesian War', Pericles' Funeral Oration. While promoting tolerance, this statement could be interpreted as a subtle dismissal of social norms or traditional expectations of behavior, potentially seen as 'politically incorrect' by more conservative elements.

Date / Period

431 BC (approximate, as recorded by Thucydides)

Category

Controversial

Source

https://antigonejournal.com/2021/12/after-pericles-what-can-we-learn-about-democ…

Verification

Unverifiable

Explanation

Found in 1 providers: gemini

Method

Cross Reference

Sources Checked

1 source

More from Pericles

"The admiration of the present and succeeding ages will be ours, since we have not shrunk from any toil or danger."

Shocking

"We are lovers of the beautiful, yet with economy."

Shocking

"The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out to meet it."

Shocking

"I am of the opinion that we ought not to give way to the Peloponnesians, but to maintain our own course."

Shocking

"Who makes the fairest show means most deceit."

Humorous
View all sayings from Pericles