Agents Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“MINISTER, n. An agent of a higher power with a lower responsibility. In diplomacy, an officer sent into a foreign country as the visible embodiment of his sovereign's hostility.”
About This Quote
Source Dictionary entry: The American Cyclopaedia, 1885
He defines a minister as a low-level agent of a hostile sovereign, highlighting the power dynamics of diplomacy.
In simple terms: Minister is a low-level hostile envoy.
Key Takeaway
Question authority in diplomatic roles.
Themes
politics
power
representation
Mood
cynical
humorous
Type
satirical
political
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- government appointments
- political satire
Key Concepts
sovereignty
diplomacy
hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does satire affect our view of political roles?
- What are the real responsibilities of a minister?
A Different Perspective
The definition is satirical and may oversimplify.
![“I don't see [ Trainspotting ] as an albatross, I see it more as a calling card. It's got me out to Hollywood, I've got a good agent, I've got a good manager, I'm getting a lot of work out there and doing a lot of stuff - getting a lot of film projects on the go.” quote by Irvine Welsh](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/918/irvine-welsh-843_agents_i-don-t-see-trainspotting-as-an-albatros_7750.jpg)
