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Corruption Quote by Aung San Suu Kyi

“It is not power that corrupts but fear. Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it and fear of the scourge of power corrupts those who are subject to it.” quote by Aung San Suu Kyi
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“It is not power that corrupts but fear. Fear of losing power corrupts those who wield it and fear of the scourge of power corrupts those who are subject to it.”

Aung San Suu Kyi

About This Quote

Source Speech: Democratic Forum, 2015

Fear of losing power corrupts both rulers and subjects, not power itself.

In simple terms: Fear corrupts, not power.

Key Takeaway

Address fear to prevent corruption.

Themes

politics fear corruption

Mood

cautious reflective

Type

political psychological

When to use this quote

  • government reforms
  • civic education
  • leadership training

Key Concepts

Psychology of power ethical leadership

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to distinguish healthy caution from corrosive fear?
  • What mechanisms reduce fear-driven corruption?
A Different Perspective

Fear may be rational in some contexts.

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