Power is, in its nature, encroaching; and such is the…
“Power is, in its nature, encroaching; and such is the human make that men who are vested with a share of it are generally inclined to take more than it was intended they should have.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Power tends to expand beyond its intended limits, driven by human nature.
In simple terms: Power grows beyond its original scope.
Key Takeaway
Guard against power concentration.
Themes
politics
human nature
authority
corruption
expansion
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
political
historical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- corporate leadership
- personal ambition
- legal frameworks
Key Concepts
Self‑interest
institutional drift
checks and balances
Questions to Reflect On
- What mechanisms can limit power overreach?
- How does personal ambition affect public duty?
A Different Perspective
Power can be checked by strong institutions and civic vigilance.