Question

How does Pericles describe Athenian democracy

Answer 1

Pericles described as not a copy of the laws of other states. Instead, "the administration of Athens favors the many instead of the few", hence the name democracy. The laws guarentee equal justice to all. The freedom that is enjoyed in the Athenian government is extended to be equally enjoyed in Athenian ordinary and everyday life. Athenians would not become angry at or express envy towards their neighbors for doing what they please or engage in offensive and/or agressive acts to express their jealousy, but instead all the ease and freedom Athenians are granted under their democracy does not make them act lawless as citizens. Basically, Pericles describes Athenians as happy with life in their city and with the political system of Athens.