Read the following excerpt from Demosthenes' speech "The Third Philippic." Then answer the question that follows.
It is a strange thing, perhaps, that I am about to say, but it is true. The worst feature in the past is that in which lies our best hope for the future. And what is this? It is that you are in your present plight because you do not do any part of your duty, small or great; for of course, if you were doing all that you should do, and were still in this evil case, you could not even hope for any improvement. As it is, Philip has conquered your indolence and your indifference; but he has not conquered Athens. You have not been vanquished, you have never even stirred.
Which choice best represents the central idea of this excerpt?
Athens is too busy preparing to fight to get any governing done.
Athenians have no hope for the future.
The problems the people of Athens are having can be blamed on their lack of action.
Phillip hasn't conquered Athens yet, so don't worry about anything.
