Skip to content

when I see kings lying by those who deposed them, when I…

“when I see kings lying by those who deposed them, when I consider rival wits placed side by side, or the holy men that divided the world with their contests and disputes, I reflect with sorrow and astonishment on the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind.” quote by Stephen R. Covey
Download Open image
““when I see kings lying by those who deposed them, when I consider rival wits placed side by side, or the holy men that divided the world with their contests and disputes, I reflect with sorrow and astonishment on the little competitions, factions, and debates of mankind.””

Stephen R. Covey

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Observing human conflict reveals how trivial many disputes are compared to larger moral issues.

In simple terms: Human arguments often seem petty.

Key Takeaway

Focus on higher values over petty fights.

Themes

conflict humility reflection

Mood

thoughtful philosophical

Type

reflective inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal development
  • mediation
  • education
  • public policy

Key Concepts

moral hierarchy human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • What larger values should guide our debates?
  • How can we reduce petty conflicts?
A Different Perspective

Complex power dynamics can make simple solutions insufficient.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Stephen R. Covey

Explore all 230 Stephen R. Covey quotes

More Side by side quotes

Browse all 783 Side by side quotes