Question

our constitution does not copy the laws of neighboring states; we are rather a pattern to others than imitators ourselves. its administration favors the many instead of the few; this is why it is called a democracy. if we look to the laws, they afford equal justice to all in their private differences; if a man is able to serve the state, he is not hindered by the obscurity of his condition. which principle did pericles discuss in this speech? a. civil rights b. equality before the law c. separation of powers d. citizen responsibilities

Explanation:

The passage from Pericles' speech emphasizes that in their constitution, equal justice is afforded to all regardless of private differences, and a man's ability to serve the state is not hindered by his social condition (like poverty or class). This focuses on the idea that all citizens are treated equally under the law in terms of access to justice and public service opportunities.

• Option A (civil rights) is broader and not as specific as the focus on equality in the legal and public service context here.
• Option C (separation of powers) is about dividing government powers, which is not mentioned.
• Option D (citizen responsibilities) focuses on what citizens do, but the passage is about how the system treats citizens equally, not their responsibilities.
• Option B (equality before the law) matches the theme of equal justice and non - hindrance based on social status in legal and public life.

Answer:

B. equality before the law