The king! I thought he was philosopher enough to allow…
““The king! I thought he was philosopher enough to allow that there was no murder in politics. In politics, my dear fellow, you know, as well as I do, there are no men, but ideas - no feelings, but interests; in politics we do not kill a man, we only remove an obstacle, that is all.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Politics is portrayed as a realm of ideas and interests where human life is expendable, and obstacles are removed rather than people killed.
In simple terms: Politics treats people as obstacles, not victims.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the dehumanizing view of power.
Themes
politics
ethics
power
humanity
Mood
cynical
critical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government decisions
- corporate strategy
- warfare
- legal reforms
Key Concepts
Machiavellianism
utilitarian calculus
Questions to Reflect On
- How does dehumanizing language affect policy?
- Can power be exercised without treating people as obstacles?
A Different Perspective
Such a view can justify cruelty and ignore moral responsibility.