To each his own is beautiful. ― Marcus Tullius Cicero
“Suum cuique pulchrum est” is a quote attributed to the Roman philosopher and statesman Marcus Tullius Cicero, and it translates to “To each his own is beautiful.” It highlights the idea that every person has their own unique perspective and that what is beautiful to one person may not be beautiful to another. This quote is a reminder that everyone has different tastes and opinions and we should respect and appreciate each other’s individuality.
In today’s society, there is often a lot of pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and perfection. Social media and advertising constantly bombard us with images of what we “should” look like and how we “should” live our lives. However, these standards of beauty are often unrealistic and exclusive, leaving many people feeling inadequate and insecure.
Cicero’s quote reminds us that true beauty lies in individuality and diversity. We should embrace our own unique qualities and not compare ourselves to others. Every person is different, and what is beautiful to one person may not be the same as what is beautiful to another. Therefore, true beauty is subjective and should be celebrated in all its forms.
Furthermore, the quote can also be interpreted to mean that every individual has a unique purpose and potential in life, and that it’s important to pursue what brings us joy and fulfillment, rather than trying to conform to someone else’s expectations. Each person has their own unique talents, passions, and aspirations, and we should strive to live a life that is true to ourselves.
In short, Cicero’s quote “Suum cuique pulchrum est” is a powerful reminder to appreciate and celebrate individuality, diversity, and the subjective nature of beauty. It encourages us to embrace our own unique qualities and to pursue what brings us joy and fulfillment in life. In a world that often promotes conformity, this quote is a timely reminder to be true to ourselves and to respect and appreciate the differences in others.
If you are interested in learning more about the quote “Suum cuique pulchrum est” and Cicero’s philosophy on individuality, I recommend checking out the book “Cicero: On the Good Life” by Cicero translated by Michael Grant. This book provides an in-depth look into Cicero’s ideas on leading a virtuous life and understanding the nature of beauty and truth. It also delves into Cicero’s views on the importance of living a life that is true to oneself, rather than conforming to societal expectations. The book is a great resource for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of Cicero’s thought and how it relates to embracing individuality and the subjective nature of beauty. It provides a great context for understanding the quote in question.
Sapiens Verbum 