Aeschines: 'For then only will you be strong, when you cherish the laws, and when the revolutionary attempts of lawless men shall have ceased.'

For then only will you be strong, when you cherish the laws, and when the revolutionary attempts of lawless men shall have ceased.

The quote by Aeschines – 'For then only will you be strong, when you cherish the laws, and when the revolutionary attempts of lawless men shall have ceased' – carries a profound message about the relationship between strength and the preservation of laws within a society. It emphasizes that true strength can only be attained when individuals wholeheartedly value and adhere to the laws that govern their communities, while also acknowledging the detrimental impact that lawlessness and revolutionary behavior can have. This seemingly straightforward interpretation holds immense importance in promoting stability and harmony within societies.However, delving deeper into this quote, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that adds intrigue to the discussion: the idea of lawful rebellion as a potential means to progress and reform. At first glance, this notion might appear contradictory to Aeschines' message, as it advocates for a deviation from established laws. Yet, by exploring the contrast between cherishing the laws and revolutionary attempts, we can uncover an intriguing tension.Both cherishing the laws and engaging in revolutionary acts aim to address societal grievances; however, they differ in approach. Cherishing the laws promotes the endurance of established systems, ensuring a sense of order and stability. On the other hand, revolutionary attempts challenge existing norms and systems in pursuit of change. While the former highlights the importance of respecting established boundaries, the latter questions those boundaries' fairness and adaptability to an evolving society.This juxtaposition evokes the philosophical concept of 'legal positivism versus natural law.' Legal positivism suggests that laws derive their legitimacy solely from legal authority, while natural law argues that some higher moral principles should guide our interpretation of laws. Aeschines' quote seems to align more with legal positivism by emphasizing the significance of cherishing and upholding established laws. However, the presence of revolutionary attempts calls into question the boundaries defined by legal positivism, engaging with the principles of natural law.By introducing this philosophical contrast, we expand the scope of Aeschines' quote to consider the delicate balance between respecting laws and advocating for change. After all, history has shown the transformative power of lawful rebellion in bringing about much-needed societal progress. Through civil rights movements, women's suffrage, and many other examples, we witness instances where individuals sought to change unjust laws while still upholding the idea of a lawful society.To truly be strong, then, individuals must recognize that cherishing the laws should not be interpreted as an unquestioning acceptance of their flaws or an aversion to necessary reform. Instead, true strength lies in understanding that upholding the laws of a society also means actively working towards their improvement. Rather than advocating for lawlessness, individuals should channel their energies into efforts that challenge existing norms with a quest for justice and equality.In conclusion, Aeschines' quote reminds us of the fundamental importance of cherishing the laws and curbing the revolutionary attempts of lawless men to foster strength and stability within a society. However, by introducing the concept of lawful rebellion, we recognize the need to strike a balance between preserving established laws and advocating for their transformation. Tapping into the philosophical realms of legal positivism versus natural law, we acknowledge the significance of respecting boundaries while remaining open to constructive change. Ultimately, true strength lies not in blind adherence to the status quo, but rather in engaging with the laws, challenging them when necessary, and striving for a more just and equitable society.