Skip to content

Businessmen Quote by Anonymous

“Businessmen have a different set of delusions from politicians, and need, therefore, different handling. They are, however, much milder than politicians, at the same time allured and terrified by the glare of publicity, easily persuaded to be “patriots”, perplexed, bemused, indeed terrified, yet…” quote by Anonymous
Download Open image
““Businessmen have a different set of delusions from politicians, and need, therefore, different handling. They are, however, much milder than politicians, at the same time allured and terrified by the glare of publicity, easily persuaded to be “patriots”, perplexed, bemused, indeed terrified, yet only too anxious to take a cheerful view, vain perhaps but very unsure of themselves, pathetically responsive to a kind word. You could do anything you liked with them, if you would treat them (even the big ones), not as wolves or tigers, but as domestic animals by nature, even though they have been badly brought up and not trained as you would wish. It is a mistake to think that they are more immoral than politicians. If you work them into the surly, obstinate, terrified mood, of which domestic animals, wrongly handled, are so capable, the nation’s burdens will not get carried to market; and in the end public opinion will veer their way.””

Anonymous

About This Quote

Businessmen share delusions with politicians but are milder; they respond to praise and fear, needing gentle guidance rather than harsh control.

In simple terms: Businessmen are easily swayed by fear and praise, needing careful handling.

Key Takeaway

Treat them with empathy, avoid harsh criticism.

Themes

leadership politics business ethics psychology

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

critical observational

When to use this quote

  • corporate negotiations
  • public relations crises
  • team management
  • policy advocacy

Key Concepts

delusion influence social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders balance accountability with empathy?
  • What safeguards prevent manipulation in business?
A Different Perspective

Overgeneralizing all businessmen can ignore individual differences.

4.4 out of 5 (6 ratings)

More by Anonymous

Explore all 162,899 Anonymous quotes

More Businessmen quotes

Browse all 112 Businessmen quotes