Study the best?

The Spartans cannot manage their serf population. Their women are too influential and too luxurious. Their property system has concentrated all wealth in a few hands. Hence the citizen body bas decreased. There are points to criticize in the Ephorate, the Senate, the Kingship, the common meals, the Admiralty. The Spartan and his state are only fit for war. Yet even in war Sparta is hampered by the want of a financial system.

Common meals?

Oligarchy with some democratic features — Carthage.

Does studying the best of the best of the past help one understand the best or greatness?

Solon:

Of lawgivers, Solon was the best; conservative when possible, and a moderate democrat.