"That is the Roman way: to give favors to the favorites"

This quote by Hans Kung is describing the Roman Empire and its system of patronage. The Roman means was to give supports to those that were favored by the ruling class. This might consist of political allies, relative, or those who had actually done something to get favor with the gentility. This system of patronage was made use of to maintain power and influence, as those who were favored were more likely to support the gentility. This system of patronage was also used to compensate commitment as well as to make certain that those that were favored would continue to be faithful to the gentility. This system of patronage was a crucial component of the Roman Empire and was utilized to keep power and impact.