Quote by Aristotle
For as the interposition of a rivulet, however small, will occasion the line of the phalanx to fluctuate, so any trifling disagreement will be the cause of seditions; but they will not so soon flow from anything else as from the disagreement between virtue and vice, and next to that between poverty and riches.
Summary
This quote highlights the idea that even small disturbances can have a significant impact on the unity and stability of a group or society. Just as a small rivulet can disrupt the formation of a phalanx (a military formation), minor disagreements can lead to larger conflicts. However, the most profound causes of upheaval are the conflicts between moral values (virtue and vice) and socioeconomic disparities (poverty and riches). These disagreements have the potential to create deep divisions and discord within communities. Ultimately, the quote suggests that it is important to address fundamental issues like ethical differences and economic inequality to foster harmonious coexistence.
Topics
Revolution
By Aristotle