Agitation Quote by Ambrose Bierce
“POLITICIAN, n. An eel in the fundamental mud upon which the superstructure of organized society is reared. When he wriggles, he mistakes the agitation of his tail for the trembling of the edifice.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Devil’s Dictionary, 1906
Politicians are likened to eels whose movements are mistaken for the stability of society, highlighting their deceptive influence.
In simple terms: Politicians may seem stable but are actually unstable.
Key Takeaway
Question appearances, seek true stability.
Themes
politics
deception
instability
Mood
skeptical
critical
Type
satirical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- elections
- policy making
- public discourse
- leadership evaluation
Key Concepts
Power dynamics
societal foundations
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens discern genuine leadership?
- What systems ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
Not all political actors are deceitful; many aim for genuine service.
