It would certainly be better that the legislator
should from the first so order his state as to have no need of such
a remedy. But if the need arises, the next best thing is that he
should endeavor to correct the evil by this or some similar measure.
The principle, however, has not been fairly applied in states; for,
instead of looking to the good of their own constitution, they have
used ostracism for factious purposes. It is true that under
perverted forms of government, and from their special point of view,
such a measure is just and expedient, but it is also clear that it
is not absolutely just. In the perfect state there would be great
doubts about the use of it, not when applied to excess in strength,
wealth, popularity, or the like, but when used against some one who is
pre-eminent in virtue- what is to be done with him? Mankind will not
say that such an one is to be expelled and exiled; on the other
hand, he ought not to be a subject- that would be as if mankind should
claim to rule over Zeus, dividing his offices among them. The only
alternative is that all should joyfully obey such a ruler, according
to what seems to be the order of nature, and that men like him
should be kings in their state for life.
XIV
The preceding discussion, by a natural transition, leads to the
consideration of royalty, which we admit to be one of the true forms
of government.
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