As kings are begotten and born like other men, it is to be…
“As kings are begotten and born like other men, it is to be presumed that they are of the human species; and perhaps, had they thesame education, they might prove like other men. But, flattered from their cradles, their hearts are corrupted, and their heads are turned, so that they seem to be a species by themselves… Flattery cannot be too strong for them; drunk with it from their infancy, like old drinkers, they require dreams.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Nobles, despite human origins, become corrupted by flattery and isolation, losing common humanity and dreaming beyond reality.
In simple terms: Nobles lose humanity through flattery and isolation.
Key Takeaway
Guard against ego and stay grounded.
Themes
ego
flattery
corruption
humanity
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- corporate culture
- social media influence
Key Concepts
social psychology
power dynamics
identity formation
Questions to Reflect On
- How does flattery affect decision‑making?
- What practices keep leaders humble?
A Different Perspective
Flattery can also motivate positive change if balanced.