By: Dr. Ata Hoodashtian
Achaemenid Cyrus initiated a new civilization and a new look at power and politics, and brought great honor to Iran. While in command, he set an example that became a model for other thinkers. In the 4th century BC, Plato cites Cyrus as an outstanding ruler against Pericles. In a critical look at the fragmented Italy of the 15 th century, Machiavelli in Prince regarded the reign of Cyrus as a prime example and model of progress for the time. In his philosophy of history and philosophy of law, Hegel referred to Cyrus as an example of centralized power that Germany needed at the time and as a modern administration. Today, Iran has the right to return to its Iranian-ness and that of Cyrus in the face of governmental ignorance.