Even not a bad idea to “go on a drive”!

A virtuous life implies activity, but activity may be speculative as well as practical. Those are wrong who regard the life of a practical politician as degrading. But again they are wrong who treat political power as the highest good.

heg— to drive.

What drives you?

Or… the idea:

Focus on act, action, drive, driving force … movement.

Pingo: “I paint”

peyk

Image means:

Imago, imagine, copy … imitate. Imitor. Imitation. Heymo

*ima— copy

Instrument — a tool or thing which *builds*!

Image builder.

iPad Pro, split screen, ChatGPT 4 and beyond —

Before constructing the ideal state we must know what is the most desirable life for states and individuals.

1. The most desirable life for an individual?
2. True happiness flows from the possession of wisdom and virtue — not from the possession of external goods
3. A virtuous life MUST BE equipped with external goods as instruments

True happiness flows from the possession of wisdom and virtue, and not from the possession of external goods. But a virtuous life must be equipped with external goods as instruments.

Instruo— to build.

Instrument — to build.

How I research:

in a Democracy the Many are also the poor, in an Oligarchy the Few are also the wealthy.

Rich vs Poor?

The best men alone are citizens

The Middle Class?

The middle class is stronger in large than in small states.

Of Monarchy. there are five kinds, (1) the Spartan, (2) the Barbarian, (3) the elective Dictatorship, (4) the Heroic, (s) Absolute Kingship.

Monarchy arose to meet the needs of primitive society; it is now obsolete and on various grounds objectionable.

“Primitive” Society?

Primus— First.

*per— before, in front.

Let us consider the origin and nature of the best polity, now that we have agreed not to call Absolute Kingship the best.

The good critic need not be an expert; experts are sometimes bad judges.

There is something in the claims advanced by the wealthy, the free born, the noble, the highly gifted.

A state should consist of men who are equal, or nearly so, in wealth, in birth, in moral and intellectual excellence.

In praise of Kingmanship?

in the ideal stale, if a preeminent individual be found, he should be made a king.

Democracy is the rule of the poor; oligarchy is that of the rich.

Aristotle is so wise!!!

Democrats take Equality for their motto; oligarchs believe that political rights should be unequal and proportionate to wealth. But both sides miss the true object of the state, which is virtue. Those who do most to promote virtue deserve the greatest share of power.

In politics, the goal is to help people, not just the leader.

1. Satisfy our social instinct — to be human is to be social.
2. ”The good life”

The aims of the state are two: to satisfy man’s social instinct, and to fit him for the good life.

Political rule differs from that over slaves in aiming primarily at the good of those who are ruled.

Political leaders aim to do what’s best for the people, unlike rulers of slaves who focus on their own interests.

Politics is for the people’s benefit, not like controlling slaves for self-gain.

Leaders in politics should work for the people’s good, unlike slave masters who work for themselves.

Mekhanikos

The etymology of the word “mechanic” traces back to ancient Greek and has evolved over time:

1. Ancient Greek Origins: The root of “mechanic” comes from the Greek word “mÄ“khanikós,” which means “pertaining to machines.” This, in turn, is derived from “mÄ“khanÄ“,” meaning “device, tool, or machine.” The original Greek term was used to describe someone skilled in the use of machines or the making of devices.
2. Latin Influence: The word then passed into Latin as “mechanicus,” retaining a similar meaning related to machinery and the art of constructing machines.
3. Middle English Development: In the Middle English period, the word was adopted as “mechanic” or “mekanik,” where it began to be used in the context of manual labor and the practical application of physical sciences, especially in relation to the construction and use of machines or engines.
4. Modern Usage: In contemporary English, “mechanic” has a more specific connotation, often referring to a tradesperson who repairs and maintains machinery, particularly engines in vehicles like cars and airplanes.

This etymological journey reflects the evolution of the word from a broad association with machines and devices in ancient times to its more specialized modern usage in the field of machine repair and maintenance.

Anti laborer or craftsmen — the mechanics.

In this context, Aristotle’s use of “mechanics” in his discussion of citizenship in the “best state” reflects his view on the role and status of different classes of people in a political community. Mechanics, in ancient Greek society, typically referred to manual laborers or craftsmen. Aristotle’s political philosophy, as outlined in “Politics,” suggests a hierarchical view of society where not everyone was deemed suitable for citizenship.

Aristotle argued that the best state is one where citizens are able to participate in deliberative and judicial functions. He believed that for one to engage effectively in these functions, they must have leisure time and not be preoccupied with the basic task of earning a living. Mechanics, being manual laborers, were thus seen as too preoccupied with their work to fully participate in the political life of the state.

His view reflects the values of his time, where manual labor was often not held in high esteem, and political participation was seen as a function of the leisure class. This perspective contrasts sharply with extreme democracies and some oligarchies, which were more inclusive of various social classes, including mechanics, in political participation.

Aristotle acknowledges that circumstances, such as the need for a larger pool of people to participate in governance or military service, might force these states to extend citizenship to mechanics. This necessity, however, was seen as a deviation from the ideal.

This analysis of “mechanics” in Aristotle’s political theory underlines his belief in a structured, hierarchical society where political privilege is tied to one’s role and status within the societal framework. It also highlights a tension between the ideal state (as Aristotle saw it) and the practicalities and realities of running a diverse and complex society.

Mechanics will not be citizens in the best state. Extreme democracies, and some oligarchies, neglect this rule. But circumstances oblige them to do this. They have no choice.

***

How are we to define a citizen? He is more than a mere denizen; private rights do not make a citizen.

Start off with defining, definitions?

Political power … power in the polis, the city?

Good citizen vs good man?

Citizenship is moral training.

The good citizen may not be a good man; the good citizen is one who does good service to his state, and this state may be bad in principle. In a constitutional state the good citizen knows both how to rule and how to obey. The good man is one who is fitted to rule. But the citizen in a constitutional state learns to rule by obeying orders. Therefore citizenship in such a state is a moral training.

Seek to help others, not please others.

Praised by good old Aristotle:

Here are some notable quotes from Solon, the ancient Greek lawmaker and poet:

1. “Seek to learn constantly while you live; do not wait in the faith that old age by itself will bring wisdom” oai_citation:1,TOP 25 QUOTES BY SOLON (of 56) | A-Z Quotes.
2. “Learn to obey before you command” oai_citation:2,Solon Quotes – BrainyQuote oai_citation:3,Solon Quotes oai_citation:4,Top 40 Solon Quotes (2024 Update) – QuoteFancy.
3. “Put more trust in nobility of character than in an oath” oai_citation:5,Solon Quotes – BrainyQuote oai_citation:6,Solon Quotes.
4. “Speech is the mirror of action” oai_citation:7,Solon Quotes – BrainyQuote.
5. “Rich people without wisdom and learning are but sheep with golden fleeces” oai_citation:8,Solon Quotes – BrainyQuote.
6. “Let no man be called happy before his death. Till then, he is not happy, only lucky” oai_citation:9,Solon Quotes – BrainyQuote.
7. “Call no man happy until he is dead” oai_citation:10,Solon Quotes (Author of Dichtungen) – Goodreads.
8. “No more good must be attempted than the nation can bear” oai_citation:11,Solon Quotes (Author of Dichtungen) – Goodreads.
9. “In giving advice, seek to help, not please, your friend” oai_citation:12,Solon Quotes.
10. “Men keep agreements when it is to the advantage of neither to break them” oai_citation:13,Solon Quotes.
11. “I grow old learning something new every day” oai_citation:14,Top 40 Solon Quotes (2024 Update) – QuoteFancy.
12. “Laws are like spider’s webs: If some poor weak creature comes up against them, it is caught; but a big one can break through and get away” oai_citation:15,Top 40 Solon Quotes (2024 Update) – QuoteFancy.

These quotes reflect Solon’s wisdom and his understanding of life, leadership, and law. His thoughts on learning, character, and the nature of happiness are particularly profound and relevant even today.

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.

Ancient Greeks primarily used bronze for armor due to several reasons, reflecting a blend of available technology, cultural values, and practical considerations of the time.

1. Material Availability and Technology: During the Bronze Age, bronze was the most advanced metal available for weapon and armor making. The Greeks had mastered the art of bronze-working, making it a logical choice. The technology to work with iron, which would lead to the later Iron Age, was not yet developed or widespread.
2. Strength and Durability: Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, was strong and durable enough for effective protection in battle. It could be crafted into various forms, like helmets, breastplates, and greaves, providing comprehensive protection.
3. Craftsmanship and Artistry: The Greeks valued aesthetics and craftsmanship. Bronze could be worked into intricate designs, reflecting the high artistry of Greek culture. This aspect wasn’t just about beauty; ornate armor also had psychological impacts in battle, potentially intimidating opponents.
4. Cultural Significance: Armor wasn’t just for protection; it was a status symbol. Possessing well-crafted bronze armor was a sign of wealth and prestige. It played a role in the social and political dynamics of Greek society.
5. Flexibility and Weight: Bronze armor provided a balance between protection and flexibility. It allowed soldiers, particularly hoplites, to be effectively armored yet still mobile enough for the phalanx formation, a key element of Greek military tactics.

In summary, the use of bronze for armor in ancient Greece was a convergence of technological capabilities, material properties, cultural aesthetics, social symbolism, and practical battlefield needs. This choice was a product of their era, reflecting their technological mastery, cultural values, and tactical necessities.

The Spartans wore red, red capes to strike fear into their enemies?

1. Red strikes fear into your enemies?

Why did the ancient Greeks use bronze

Certainly! The description of Achilles’ armor, particularly his shield, is one of the most famous passages in Homer’s “The Iliad.” Here are some key quotes that describe the armor, focusing on the shield:

1. Creation of the Armor:

• “Thetis left her son at dawn of day, / Burning for battle and for strife to come; / And round about the might of Peleus’ son / Hephaistos cast a wondrous panoply” (Book 18, Lines 617-620).

1. Description of the Shield:

• “First fashioned he a shield that was huge and heavy, / Elaborating it about, and threw around it a shining triple rim / that glittered, and the shield strap was cast of silver” (Book 18, Lines 480-482).
• “Therein he set the earth and sky and sea, / The unwearied sun, the moon at her full, / And all the signs that crown the vault of heaven; / Pleiades and Hyads and Orion’s might, / And Arctos, called the Wain, who wheels on high / His circling course, and on Orion waits” (Book 18, Lines 485-490).

1. Scenes on the Shield:

• “Also he set therein two fair cities of mortal men. / In one were marriages and feasts, and they / Were leading the brides along the city from their maiden chambers / Under the flaring of torches, and loud arose the bridal song” (Book 18, Lines 490-493).
• “About the other city were two armies in shining armour / That were making them ready for an onset terrible around / The city, for their foes were besieging them on either hand” (Book 18, Lines 509-511).

These excerpts from Homer’s epic highlight not only the craftsmanship of the armor but also the deep symbolism embodied in the shield. The shield’s depiction of life, both in peace and in war, reflects the breadth of human experience, resonating with Achilles’ own journey as a warrior and a hero.

Strike fear into the heart of enemies?

Near-invulnerable status.

Greaves — fitted perfectly to his form, allowing both protection and agility.

Not just a piece of armor but work of art.

The armor of Achilles, as depicted in Homer’s epic poem “The Iliad,” is a magnificent example of ancient craftsmanship and mythological significance. Forged by the god Hephaestus, this armor represents not only physical protection but also the glory and heroism inherent in Achilles’ character.

The helmet was likely crested, gleaming, and imposing, designed to strike fear into the hearts of enemies. The breastplate, intricately detailed and robust, would shimmer like the sun, reflecting Achilles’ near-invulnerable status. The greaves, protecting his legs, were likely fitted perfectly to his form, allowing for both protection and agility.

The shield of Achilles is particularly noteworthy. Described in great detail in “The Iliad,” it’s not just a piece of armor but a work of art. The shield depicts a microcosm of Greek life and the world, with images of the heavens, the earth, the sea, and the daily lives of people. It features cities at war and at peace, fields being plowed, a king’s court dispensing justice, and scenes of pastoral life.

This armor, in essence, is more than just a warrior’s gear; it’s a symbol of the hero’s identity, his status, and his journey. It embodies the ultimate blend of divine craftsmanship and human heroism, making Achilles not just a warrior but almost a force of nature on the battlefield.

My theory —

Christian, Protestant, American culture says it is a vice to care for your body (“too much”)—

Thus the will to uglification of the body. Christians — the early Christian fathers, many of them hated the body, their bodies!

In a diseased body lies a diseased mind.

Just say what’s on your mind! #nofilter

They only care for their own vanity!

New year GoPro mini vlog

In order to become a great photographer, you require great muscles?

Askesis — life *is* training.

Askesis 1080P

Wear brighter colors?

Bright purple, pink!

Essentially live like a poor person

Ruler vs subject

Uniformity is bad

Impractiable

Private property makes man happier — cultivate virtues of generosity

Natural affection

Differentiation is truth.

Among theorists, Plato in the Republic raises the most
fundamental questions. He desires to abolish private
property and the family.
But the end which be bas in view is wrong. He wishes to
make all his citizens absolutely alike; but the differentiation of functions is a law of nature. There can be too much unity in a state.

Manage people — most critical not things.

In household management persons call for more attention than things; free persons for more than slaves. Slaves are only capable of an inferior kind of virtue. Socrates was wrong in denying that there are several kinds of virtue. Still the slave must be trained in virtue. The education of the free man will be subsequently discussed.

The ideal female physique is hourglass?

Also… I just want to be left alone!

History etymology of chivalry

The etymology of “chivalry” reveals a fascinating journey from medieval battlefields to modern conceptions of gentlemanly behavior. The word “chivalry” comes from the Old French term “chevalerie,” which itself derives from “chevalier,” meaning “knight.” This term has its roots in the Latin word “caballarius,” related to “caballus,” a term for “horse.”

In medieval Europe, chivalry was initially associated with horsemanship and the military prowess of mounted knights. It was a period when the horse was central to warfare and social status, and those who could afford horses were often part of the military elite. The concept of “chevalier” was thus intertwined with notions of nobility, bravery, and skill in battle.

Over time, however, chivalry evolved to encompass a broader set of virtues and social codes. The concept became heavily influenced by the Church, which sought to temper the violence of knights with Christian values. This fusion led to the idea of the “knight in shining armor,” who not only excelled in warfare but also adhered to principles like protecting the weak, showing mercy, and maintaining honor and loyalty.

By the late medieval period, chivalry had become an elaborate code of conduct, not just for warfare but for courtly life as well. This included courtship rituals, manners, and a growing emphasis on gentleness and courtesy alongside bravery.

In the modern era, the term “chivalry” has largely lost its martial connotations, evolving to refer more broadly to courteous behavior, especially that of men towards women. This modern interpretation often emphasizes respect, protection, and a somewhat idealized view of gentlemanly conduct.

Reflecting on this evolution, it’s interesting to consider how the concept of chivalry has both changed and stayed the same. At its core, it has always been about a set of ideals and behaviors that define a certain social status and role. What has changed is the context and specific content of those ideals, adapting to the shifting landscapes of society, warfare, and gender relations. This evolution of chivalry from a martial code to a broader social and moral code illustrates the dynamic nature of cultural values and how they adapt over time.

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OH YEAH~

Funny enough when you’re tired, it is precisely the best time to exercise in order to *GAIN* energy!

Think askesis, training.