Full Idea
If lack of self-control exists at the level of a single individual, it also exists at the level of a city.
Gist of Idea
A community can lack self-control
Source
Aristotle (Politics [c.332 BCE], 1310a17)
Book Reference
Aristotle: 'Politics', ed/tr. Reeve,C.D.C. [Hackett 2017], p.130
A Reaction
A nice extension of the problem of akrasia. Was Britain declaring war in 1914 an act of akrasia? With hindsight it looks that way. Strong emotions about Belgium overcame sensible concern for the young men of Britain.