Athens Vs Sparta

Athens Versus Sparta
As most people know Athens and Sparta were two very different rival city states.   Athens is known for its democratic and somewhat liberal way of thinking while Athens is known for its strong military power.   When one compares the two city states, the reasons for these strong differences become very clear.
Sparta was a very powerful and prestigious city state.   Sparta had lots of competitions in strength and running, therefore making everyone very competitive.   The laws, made by Lycurgus are very strict and seem to have less of an emphasis on criminal punishment and more on outlining how to raise children and be a productive member of society.   Laws for raising families start with marriage.   People must be married in their prime age and condition in order to have the genetically best possible offspring.   If the couple has a son, he will follow a strict set of rules such as not wearing sandals, eating small meals and getting only one garment to wear per year.   The goal of these rules is to have the boys be able to make the best of what they have and be as ready as possible for battle.   As far as discipline goes, the elected officials can punish whomever they see fit however they see fit.   Moneymaking is not allowed so that people are motivated to do what their part in the community instead of make money.   As one can see, with this strict emphasis on education and giving back to the city-state, it is quite clear why Sparta would have such a powerful military and be such a powerful city-state.
On the other hand, Athens’ government and law system is set up quite differently.   Athens is a democracy, so instead of having a couple people in charge of the city-state, a large number of people contribute to the decision making of the government.   Athens emphasizes equality.   Everyone is punished equally no matter what their social status may be.   Everything that is open to the public is completely nonexclusive.   In fact, Athens seems to be very open...