Nothing is more dangerous in wartime than to live in the…
“Nothing is more dangerous in wartime than to live in the temperamental atmosphere of a Gallup Poll, always feeling ones pulse and taking ones temperature. I see that a speaker at the week-end said that this was a time when leaders should keep their ears to the ground. All I can say is that the British nation will find it very hard to look up to leaders who are detected in that somewhat ungainly posture.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
In wartime, obsessively tracking public opinion creates a volatile atmosphere, making leaders appear detached and ineffective.
In simple terms: Polls can destabilize leadership.
Key Takeaway
Avoid over‑reliance on public sentiment.
Themes
politics
media
leadership
Mood
critical
cautious
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- campaign planning
- government communication
- media analysis
Key Concepts
public opinion
war strategy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can leaders stay grounded without being swayed by polls?
- What alternative information sources guide decisions?
A Different Perspective
Leaders must balance data with decisive action.