Athenian View of Human Nature - 761 Words

The course of history has shown that during times of confusion or disaster, peoples true human nature emerges. Unlike the view of Gandhi, in these moments humans behave violently and are concerned with self-interest, supporting the Athenians view of human motivation. In the History of the Peloponnesian War, Thucydides gives ample support of this view of human nature. Generally regarded as one of the first true historians, he wanted to view the world as it really was and firmly insisted on sticking to the facts. Thucydides subjected human nature to an extremely cold and reductive analysis, which could be regarded as pessimism, but he considered to be realism. Generally people want to maintain a positive self-concept of themselves which†¦show more content†¦It has always been a rule that the weak should be subject to the strong; and besides, we consider that we are worthy of our power. (p. 80) Violence and survival are the laws of nature and although humans have found a way to manipulate their surroundings those basic instincts exist in all humans on a fundamental level. It makes the most sense to live peacefully in society, which is why people generally obey laws, but that does not mean that humans are inherently good. In the end, people are naturally disposed to do wrong and no amount of laws of punishments will prevent it. In a word it is impossibleÂ…for human nature, when once seriously set upon a certain course, to be prevented from following that course by the force of law or by any other means of intimidation. (p.Show MoreRelatedEssay on An Analysis of Thucydides Views on the Melian Dialogue1576 Words   |  7 PagesAn Analysis of Thucydides Views on the Melian Dialogue The Melian Dialogue is a debate between Melian and Athenian representatives concerning the sovereignty of Melos. 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