The slaves of power mind the cause they have to serve…
“The slaves of power mind the cause they have to serve, because their own interest is concerned; but the friends of liberty always sacrifice their cause, which is only the cause of humanity, to their own spleen, vanity, and self-opinion.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Power serves its own interests while liberty's advocates sacrifice the greater good for personal vanity.
In simple terms: Power is selfish; liberty can be self‑serving.
Key Takeaway
Beware self‑interest in politics.
Themes
power
liberty
self‑interest
vanity
humanity
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- government decisions
- activism
- public policy
- personal ambition
Key Concepts
political philosophy
ethical dilemma
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal motives affect public decisions?
- Can true liberty exist without sacrifice?
A Different Perspective
Self‑interest can undermine noble causes.