What then, is the object proposed to themselves by these directors of the republic, which they are bound to keep their eyes fixed upon, and towards which they ought to direct their course? That which is most excellent and most desirable to all men in their senses, and to all good and happy men, — ease conjoined with duty.
[Quid est igitur propositum his rei publicae gubernatoribus quod intueri et quo cursum suum derigere debeant? Id quod est praestantissimum maximeque optabile omnibus sanis et bonis et beatis, cum dignitate otium.]
Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC) Roman orator, statesman, philosopher
Pro Sestio [For Publius Sestius], ch. 45 / sec. 98 (56-03 BC) [tr. Yonge (1891)]
(Source)
The discussion of otium cum dignitate, coined by Cicero, is a key point in Pro Sestio. It is also translated as "leisure with dignity," "peace with dignity," "peace with honor," "fruitful leisure." Socially, it means an active, studious, useful private life or retirement after public service -- as distinguished from idleness, sloth, and indolence. Politically, Cicero used it to reference a secure, stable, peaceful, but still vigorous state, led by the "best men" (aristocrats or optimates).
(Source (Latin)). Other translations:What, therefore, is the aim of these conductors of the affairs of the state, which they ought to keep their eyes upon, and towards which they ought to direct their course? That which is most excellent and most to be desired by all sane and good and well-to-do citizens, tranquillity with freedom.
[tr. Hickie (1888)][...] That which stands first, and is most to be desired by all happy, honest, and healthy-minded men, is ease with dignity.
[ed. Harbottle (1897)]What then is the mark set before those who guide the helm of state, upon which they ought to keep their eyes and towards which they ought to direct their course? It is that which is far the best and the most desirable for all who are sound and good and prosperous; it is "peace with dignity."
[tr. Gardner (Loeb) (1958)]What then are the ideals and objectives towards which these men ought to steer the res publica? They are the finest, the noblest aims of all men of wisdom, integrity, and substance: civil peace for Rome and honour for those who deserve it.
[tr. Wilson/Lacey (1978)][...] What is desired the most, by those who are healthy, good, and blessed, is leisure with honor.
[in Jasper (2008)][...] The thing that is the most outstanding, and chiefly to be desired by all healthy and good and well-off persons, is leisure with honor.
[ed. Stone (2013)]
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