Cicero: Public Bankruptcy
on Monday, July 4, 2011Cicero Money Quotation saying more things change, the more they stay the same … is it possible the same economic warnings have existed forever. Cicero said:
“The budget should be balanced, the treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt” — Cicero
Cicero is advocating for fiscal responsibility and restraint in government spending. The best interpretation is that he felt it was important for the treasury to be solvent through a balanced budget, debts paid down, spending controlled to avoid waste or excess, foreign aid limited to prevent overextension, and officials kept humble and accountable.
His message suggests that a prudent, financially sound approach is necessary for the long term stability and security of the state.
Cicero’s quote promotes the idea that Rome’s power and prosperity depended on maintaining a strong economy through disciplined fiscal management rather than overspending or overcommitting limited resources.
Birthday: January 3, 106 BC – Death: 7, December 43 BC