We may legitimately hope that among the impulses which…
““We may legitimately hope that among the impulses which arise in minds thus emptied of all ‘rational’ or ‘spiritual’ motives, some will be benevolent. I am very doubtful myself whether the benevolent impulses, stripped of that preference and encouragement which the Tao teaches us to give them and left to their merely natural strength and frequency as psychological events, will have much influence. I am very doubtful whether history shows us one example of a man who, having stepped outside traditional morality and attained power, has used that power benevolently.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author doubts that pure benevolence can survive without cultural reinforcement and that power holders will act kindly without moral constraints.
In simple terms: Benevolence may need moral support and power often corrupts.
Key Takeaway
Expect moral guidance and checks on power.
Themes
morality
power
human nature
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- corporate governance
- personal ethics
- social policy
Key Concepts
philosophy
ethics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Can institutions foster genuine benevolence?
- What safeguards prevent power abuse?
A Different Perspective
Even with good intentions, selfish motives can dominate when unchecked.