Our constitution does not copy the laws of neighbouring
According to Pericles, how is Athens different from
states; we are rather a pattern to others than imitators
other Greek city-states?
ourselves. Its administration favors the many instead of Athens has an administration that favors the upper
the few; this is why it is called a democracy. If we look to
the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private
classes.
differences
class considerations not being allowed to
Athens has laws that treat all people fairly,
interfere with merit; nor again does poverty bar the way,
regardless of social class.
if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by
the obscurity of his condition.
Athens took the best laws of neighboring states and
made them even better.
Athens has a constitution, while other neighboring
states are lawless.