Meaning: The quote by historian Donald Kagan highlights the significant influence of ancient Greek and Roman civilizations on modern society, particularly in the realm of politics. Kagan's assertion that "we, to some degree, are like what we are because we inherited certain things from the Greeks and the Romans" underscores the enduring impact of classical antiquity on contemporary political thought, systems, and institutions.

The ancient Greeks and Romans have long been recognized as foundational influences on Western civilization. Their contributions to philosophy, literature, art, and governance have left an indelible mark on the development of human societies. In the context of politics, the legacies of ancient Greece and Rome are particularly noteworthy, as they laid the groundwork for many of the political concepts and practices that continue to shape the modern world.

In ancient Greece, the city-state of Athens is often heralded as the birthplace of democracy. The Athenian model of direct democracy, in which citizens participated directly in decision-making processes, has profoundly shaped our contemporary understanding of democratic governance. The principles of civic engagement, political participation, and the rule of law that emerged in ancient Athens continue to resonate in modern political systems.

Moreover, the political philosophy of ancient Greece, as exemplified by thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle, has profoundly influenced the theoretical underpinnings of Western political thought. Concepts such as the ideal state, the nature of justice, and the role of the citizen in society have been enduring themes in political discourse, with their roots traceable to the intellectual legacy of ancient Greece.

In the case of ancient Rome, the enduring impact of Roman political institutions and legal frameworks cannot be overstated. The Roman Republic, with its system of checks and balances, separation of powers, and representative government, provided a blueprint for subsequent forms of republican governance. The Roman concept of law as a foundation for civil society has also left an enduring legacy, shaping the development of legal systems and principles around the world.

The quote by Donald Kagan underscores the enduring relevance of these classical influences on modern political dynamics. It serves as a reminder that our contemporary political systems, ideologies, and practices are, to some extent, indebted to the intellectual and institutional foundations laid by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The quote prompts reflection on the ways in which the legacy of classical antiquity continues to inform and shape our understanding of politics and governance.

In conclusion, the quote by Donald Kagan encapsulates the enduring significance of the classical world in shaping contemporary political realities. By acknowledging the profound influence of ancient Greece and Rome on modern political thought and institutions, Kagan's words invite us to recognize the enduring relevance of classical antiquity in our understanding of politics. Whether in the realm of democratic principles, political philosophy, or legal frameworks, the legacies of the Greeks and Romans continue to resonate in the fabric of our political systems and ideologies.