PRESIDENT, n. The leading figure in a small group of men…
“PRESIDENT, n. The leading figure in a small group of men of whom - and of whom only - it is positively known that immense numbers of their countrymen did not want any of them for President.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Bierce humorously defines a president as someone who is unpopular among the very people they are supposed to lead, highlighting political irony.
In simple terms: A president is often disliked by the people they serve.
Question the true nature of political leadership.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- elections
- governance
- public opinion
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Why are leaders often unpopular?
- What makes effective leadership beyond popularity?
The definition is satirical and may not capture all aspects of leadership.