“Virtue is persecuted more by the wicked than it is loved by the good.”

I think I get his meaning, but I also think he sets low standards for whom he considers as good.

And ... standards for the wicked are high? It's easy to be good, like don't steal, don't lie, don't murder.

Virtue like goodness is not so apparent until it is taken away. This is why the good among us do not passionately love their natural state as they do not see it as unique, for them it is a given. The good will fight for righteousness when the weak are noticeably oppressed by the corrupt. Oh...except when it comes to Darfur.

...But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house. Matthew 13:57.

Joe: Who is good?

All to true -- justs look at any fundamentalist movement (Christian, Muslim, or otherwise) -- they are quick to judge and impose 'justice' in God's name. It is what gives religion a bad name.

Perhaps Archer could actually give examples of movements that "are quick to judge and impose justice." I have never known a movement to judge anything, nor to impose judgment.

Hmm, well the Inquisition comes to mind. How about the Crusades? Puritans burning women at the stake, Nazism, fascism, Patriot Act, the list is too long to mention. Being in collusion with tyranny usually blinds those imposing their will on others -- after all, they are the chosen ones who know what is best for everyone else, right? That mentality has fueled hatred and war throughout history.

Movements do not make judgments. People make judgments. And performing acts of atrocity should not be referred to as imposing justice.

David, you have issues that have little to do with the quotes at hand.

Virtue is as virtue does.