Discourses on Livy · Chapter
Chapter LVII explained
This chapter discusses the collective strength versus individual weakness of the people, using the example of Romans who moved to Veii after the Gallic invasion and later submitted to the senate's decree to return.
What happens
This chapter discusses the collective strength versus individual weakness of the people, using the example of Romans who moved to Veii after the Gallic invasion and later submitted to the senate's decree to return. It emphasizes that a multitude is formidable when united but becomes feeble when each person fears for their own safety, and that the most dangerous popular resentment arises from loss of liberty or a beloved prince.
Themes in this chapter
Republican Liberty and Popular Government
Explores the dynamics of popular will and obedience within a republic, highlighting the people's collective power and individual vulnerability.
Leadership and Moral Character
Discusses the need for a head to control and unite a multitude, as seen when the Roman commons created tribunes after Virginia's death.
Necessity and Reason of State
Addresses the use of penalties and edicts to enforce obedience, and the necessity of severe measures against popular resentment over lost liberty or a beloved prince.
Characters to notice
- Titus Livius
Quoted for his observation on the collective boldness and individual submission of the people.
Key passages
“although bold enough collectively, each separately, fearing to be punished, made his submission.”
The people are brave when acting together, but individually they submit out of fear of punishment.
Key observation by Livy on the nature of the multitude.
“For often a people will be open-mouthed in condemning the decrees of their prince, but afterwards, when they have to look punishment in the face, putting no trust in one another, they hasten to comply.”
People loudly criticize their ruler's decrees, but when faced with punishment, they quickly obey because they distrust each other.
Illustrates the fickleness and self-preservation instinct of the populace.
“For though it be furnished with arms it is easily subdued, if you have some place of strength wherein to shelter from its first onset.”
Even an armed mob can be easily overcome if you have a stronghold to withstand their initial attack.
Advice on dealing with an uncontrolled multitude.
“a multitude is strong while it holds together, but so soon as each of those who compose it begins to think of his own private danger, it becomes weak and contemptible.”
A crowd is powerful when united, but becomes weak and worthless once individuals start fearing for their own safety.
Final summary of the chapter's lesson on collective versus individual behavior.