Oligarchies, throughout past history, have always thought…
““Oligarchies, throughout past history, have always thought more of their own advantage than of that of the rest of the community. It would be foolish to be morally indignant with them on this account; human nature, in the main and in the mass, is egoistic, and in most circumstances a fair dose of egoism is necessary for survival. It was revolt against the selfishness of past political oligarchies that produced the Liberal movement in favour of democracy, and it was revolt against economic oligarchies that produced Socialism. But although everybody who was in any degree progressive recognised the evils of oligarchy throughout the past history of mankind, many progressives were taken in by an argument for a new kind of oligarchy. ‘We, the progressives’ — so runs the argument — ‘are the wise and good; we know what reforms the world needs; if we have power, we shall create a paradise.’ And so, narcissistically hypnotised by contemplation of their own wisdom and goodness, they proceeded to create a new tyranny, more drastic than any previously known.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Progressives may unintentionally become tyrannical when they assume they alone know the right reforms, repeating history’s oligarchic patterns.
In simple terms: Power can corrupt even well‑intentioned reformers.
Key Takeaway
Beware of assuming moral superiority in politics.
Themes
politics
power
reform
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy drafting
- activist movements
- government leadership
- public debate
Key Concepts
egoism
tyranny
democracy
socialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What checks prevent reformers from becoming oppressors?
- How can societies balance ambition with humility?
A Different Perspective
Idealism can blind leaders to their own biases.