Among precautions against ambition, it may not be amiss to…
“Among precautions against ambition, it may not be amiss to take precautions against our own. I must fairly say, I dread our own power and our own ambition: I dread our being too much dreaded.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
One should guard against personal ambition as fiercely as against external threats, fearing the corrupting influence of power.
In simple terms: Watch out for your own ambition.
Key Takeaway
Guard against personal ambition.
Themes
self-awareness
power
ethics
politics
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- policy making
- personal development
- organizational culture
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What ambitions might you be ignoring?
- How can you balance ambition with humility?
A Different Perspective
Self‑control is difficult when ambition is socially rewarded.