Final answer:
The sayings "safety in numbers" and "safety of numbers" reflect different contexts of security and can both be valuable depending on the situation. The former emphasizes group protection, whereas the latter hints at finding security through quantification and statistics. Balance and context are critical in determining which saying to live by.
Step-by-step explanation:
Choosing whether to live your life by the saying "safety in numbers" or "safety of numbers" can depend on context. The phrase "safety in numbers" suggests that there is security when you are part of a group, where the presence of many can deter potential threats. This concept is evident when considering the social aspects of human behavior, where being in a group can offer protection, much like a traveller finding security by joining a convoy when facing the risk of bandits on the road.
On the other hand, "safety of numbers" could be interpreted as finding security in quantifiable knowledge or statistical probability. In large groups or societies, individuals may face challenges such as the tragedy of the commons or prisoner's dilemmas, where individual contributions or misdeeds are less likely to be noticed. An emphasis on simplicity, as mentioned in one of the given quotes, might suggest that keeping count or quantity manageable can be beneficial for a meaningful and uncomplicated life.
Ultimately, both sayings emphasize the idea that there is a sort of protection or advantage in being part of something larger than oneself, whether it is a group of people or a system of understanding the world through quantification. In considering the two, it is vital to recognize that different situations may call for differing approaches and that balance is key in achieving the good life, as Aristotle mentioned.