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One must require from each one the duty which each one can…

“One must require from each one the duty which each one can perform. Accepted authority rests first of all on reason.” quote by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
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“One must require from each one the duty which each one can perform. Accepted authority rests first of all on reason.”

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Duty should match each person’s ability; authority is justified only when grounded in reason.

In simple terms: Assign tasks based on ability and reason.

Key Takeaway

Match duties to capacity and reason.

Themes

responsibility reason authority

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • government
  • education
  • family life

Key Concepts

ethical leadership human capacity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What duties align with your strengths?
  • How does reason guide authority in your life?
A Different Perspective

Reason alone may not guarantee fairness without empathy.

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