Athens in the days of Pericles had but thirty thousand people and few mechanical inventions; but she produced philosophers, poets and artists, whose work after more than twenty centuries still remain the despair of the would-be imitators.
Beck highlights the cultural achievements of ancient Athens despite its small population.
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It did not believe that the State was omnipotent or infallible, and yet it proclaimed its authority within wise and just limits.
Under the American Constitution, they are part of the fundamental law, and, as such, enforceable by judges sworn to defend the integrity of the individual as fully as the integrity of the State.
That vision will remain with them as long, and no longer, as there is in their hearts a conscious and willing acquiescence in its wisdom and justice.
If it ceases to be of the spirit of the people, then the yellow parchment whereon it is inscribed can avail nothing.
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