Cicero
In a work of philosophy, it is hard for an author to not include himself as a character. Although he may not do it intentionally, there are always bits and pieces of the author's personality incorporated into the work that he is writing. In this case, there is much honor in what has been written, because Cicero is an honorable character. Cicero explains the great difference between honorableness and usefulness, which was vastly contrasting with what was happening with the political structure of Rome at the time the book was written.
Cicero's Son
It is important not to forget that this whole book, or "letter", was one that was written to Cicero's son, who was living in Athens. Cicero does write it specifically to him, taking into account what a father would want in a son. That is, for the most part, honor over usefulness. Cicero is writing a letter of persuasion to his son, who many not yet be mature enough to understand that what is happening in Rome is not normal, and is certainly not honorable. Though the letter is written to his son, his son does not play an active role in the development of the philosophical ideas presented.
