On the value of advice
94:37
Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Book Description: The final volume of Seneca's moral letters. Common Stoic themes emerge again and again: the unreliability of fortune, the ability to form Stoic resolve, and the importance of virtue.
37. “Still,” it is objected, “laws do not always make us do what we ought to do; and what else are laws than precepts mingled with threats?” Now first of all, the laws do not persuade just because they threaten; precepts, however, instead of coercing, correct men by pleading.
Again, laws frighten one out of communicating crime, while precepts urge a man on to his duty.
Besides, the laws also are of assistance towards good conduct, at any rate if they instruct as well as command.
Book: Moral Letters Vol III
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On the value of advice
Location: Chapter 94, Section 37
Content:
37. “Still,” it is objected, “laws do not always make us do what we ought to do; and what else are laws than precepts mingled with threats?” Now first of all, the laws do not persuade just because they threaten; precepts, however, instead of coercing, correct men by pleading.
Again, laws frighten one out of communicating crime, while precepts urge a man on to his duty.
Besides, the laws also are of assistance towards good conduct, at any rate if they instruct as well as command.