BY RUSSELL TURNER
SOME THINGS STAY THE SAME
Throughout history many humans have become the victims of tyrannical rulers. I am sure that those victims did not elect their rulers to be tyrants; most had no idea that they would become tyrants. Recently I read an article that recounted the writing of the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle. His writing is over 2400 years old, but I have noticed that it is as relevant today as it was in his day. Aristotle listed 8 criteria that make a leader a tyrant.
The ancient Greeks used the word 'turannos', which referred to an illegitimate ruler who governs without regard for the law or interests of the people, often through violent and coercive means. Number 1, Aristotle suggests that a tyrant rises to power by first demonstrating that he is a man of the people: "He should be moderate, not extravagant in his way of life; he should win the notables by companionship, and the multitude by flattery. " Number 2, once in power, a tyrant uses all available means to hold on to power, including spying on his people: "A tyrant should also endeavor to know what each of his subjects says or does, and should employ spies . . . and . . . eavesdroppers . . . the fear of informers prevents people from speaking their minds, and if they do, they are more easily found out."
Number 3, a tyrant thrives by creating division and conflict. Number 4, controlling the economy and stealing the citizens' wealth is also another mark of a tyrant. Number 5, a tyrant also attempts to disarm the people; they will not attempt to overthrow a tyranny, if they are powerless. Number 6, a tyrant "is also fond of making war in order that his subjects may have something to do and be always in want of a leader." Number 7, tyrants hunt down those who oppose their power. Number 8, Ultimately, though, Aristotle concludes, "No freeman, if he can escape from [tyranny], will endure such a government."
One of the biggest flaws that we humans have is pure arrogance. Somehow we think that we are smarter than past generations and we will not have to endure the hardships that our ancestors had to live through. Leaders can become tyrants because the citizens allow it to happen. Many people in other countries have had to take up arms to rid themselves of their tyrannical ruler. Fortunately here in our country the founding fathers gave us the ability to protect ourselves without resorting to violence. Our constitution guarantees us the freedoms and rights to prevent tyranny if we will only use it. I ask all of you to look at the words of Aristotle and see how they apply to current events. My conclusion is, some things stay the same.
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