Final answer:
Pericles believed citizens should defend Athens due to its democratic constitution that offered freedom and happiness to citizens, believed Athenian governance led to a higher degree of contentment, and because the power structure allowed regular citizens to participate in governance and economic activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Pericles' view, the citizens of Athens should fight to defend their city because of the nature of their constitution and the freedom and happiness it brings. According to him, their constitution 'favors the many instead of the few', offering 'equal justice to all'. This democratic structure, in his view, has produced a society where 'happiness is the fruit of freedom' and thus worth defending.
Moreover, Pericles believed that Athenians, despite setbacks like plague and war, are generally more content in their unique form of governance, further justifying their willingness to fight and protect it.
Lastly, Pericles also believed that since the power structure meant that common citizens could participate actively in governance and the economy - for example, through being paid jurors in courts or working as rowers in the fleet- defending Athens was not just about safeguarding their homeland but also protecting their livelihoods and roles in society.
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