The slow descent into paralysis of mind.

‘It is not ignorance that brings you to a halt but you have been seized by some kind of paralysis whereby you are not moved by glory or outrage and you have exchanged everything for your present cowardice, deeming that you have ample freedom…thus the fighting and conquering benefit only the few; the plebs, whatever happens, are like the conquered and will be more so every day, at least if those men are more concerned to retain their mastery than you are to reclaim your freedom.’

~ Sallust, first century BC

There is no shortage of reminders by ancient thinkers to guard against apathy leading to a state of paralysis regarding our freedoms.

The Romans had a fortitude and self-discipline that stood the test of many centuries before the Republic finally succumbed to a decline in their fortunes.