It is not possible to found a lasting power upon…
“It is not possible to found a lasting power upon injustice, perjury, and treachery. These may, perhaps, succeed for once, and borrow for awhile, from hope, a gay and flourishing appearance. But time betrays their weakness, and they fall into ruin of themselves. For, as in structures of every kind, the lower parts should have the greatest firmness--so the grounds and principles of actions should be just and true.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Unjust foundations crumble; lasting power requires moral integrity.
In simple terms: Power built on injustice fails.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize justice and truth.
Themes
ethics
politics
justice
power
Mood
serious
thoughtful
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- government formation
- legal reform
- organizational leadership
Key Concepts
integrity
principles
social order
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the costs of insisting on absolute justice?
- Can unjust systems ever be reformed?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may overlook pragmatic realities of power.