I don't actually subscribe to the view that all power…
“I don't actually subscribe to the view that all power corrupts. But absolute power - when secured on the back of massive parliamentary majorities, which don't reflect the balance of political opinion in the country - can corrupt absolutely.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Absolute power, especially with overwhelming majorities, can corrupt absolutely despite not all power being corrupt.
In simple terms: Too much power leads to corruption.
Key Takeaway
Guard against concentrated authority.
Themes
politics
power
corruption
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- legislation
- governance
- policy making
Key Concepts
democracy
majority rule
Questions to Reflect On
- How can minorities protect against abuse?
- What checks prevent absolute power?
A Different Perspective
Balancing power is complex.