Meaning of the quote

This quote means that Demosthenes, a Greek statesman, saw himself as a part of the whole world, not just one country or region. He felt a connection to all people, not just those in his own community. Demosthenes believed that everyone on Earth is part of the same global community, and that we should care about the wellbeing of all people, not just those closest to us.

About Demosthenes

Demosthenes was a renowned Greek statesman and orator in ancient Athens. He was known for his eloquent speeches and his efforts to rally Athens against the growing power of Macedonia. Despite his passionate opposition, his attempts to preserve Athens’ freedom ultimately failed.

More about the author

More quotes from Demosthenes

Excessive dealings with tyrants are not good for the security of free states.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

What we wish, that we readily believe.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

All speech is vain and empty unless it be accompanied by action.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

There is one safeguard known generally to the wise, which is an advantage and security to all, but especially to democracies as against despots – suspicion.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

To remind a man of the good turns you have done him is very much like a reproach.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

The readiest and surest way to get rid of censure, is to correct ourselves.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

Small opportunities are often the beginning of great enterprises.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

The best protection for the people is not necessarily to believe everything people tell them.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

I am a citizen of the world.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

A man is his own easiest dupe, for what he wishes to be true he generally believes to be true.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

Beware lest in your anxiety to avoid war you obtain a master.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

As a vessel is known by the sound, whether it be cracked or not; so men are proved, by their speeches, whether they be wise or foolish.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

No man who is not willing to help himself has any right to apply to his friends, or to the gods.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

What we have in us of the image of God is the love of truth and justice.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

Close alliances with despots are never safe for free states.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

You cannot have a proud and chivalrous spirit if your conduct is mean and paltry; for whatever a man’s actions are, such must be his spirit.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)

Every dictator is an enemy of freedom, an opponent of law.

Demosthenes

classical Athenian statesman and orator (384-322 BC)