Association Quote by Bertrand De Jouvenel
““The law of all modern states takes account of associations, whose members, in theory, pursue the common end with equal zeal. The experience of all associations proves, however, that this is not the case, and that a lively, constant and vigorous awareness of the end is found only in a minority of the associates; an association is really rather like a comet—a large tail of docile followers dragged along by a small dynamic head.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Theory of the Modern State, 1935
Associations often claim shared purpose, but only a few energetic leaders truly drive the group toward its goal.
In simple terms: Most groups have a small active core and many passive followers.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and empower the dynamic leaders.
Themes
leadership
group dynamics
motivation
political theory
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
theoretical
political
When to use this quote
- political parties
- corporate teams
- social movements
- nonprofit boards
Key Concepts
collective action
elite influence
organizational behavior
Questions to Reflect On
- How can organizations ensure broader engagement?
- What mechanisms keep leaders accountable?
A Different Perspective
Minorities may dominate direction, marginalizing broader participation.
![“[T]here are, at bottom, basically two ways to order social affairs, Coercively, through the mechanisms of the state - what we can call political society. And voluntarily, through the private interaction of individuals and associations - what we can call civil society. ... In a civil society, you…” quote by Ed Crane](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b8b/ed-crane-39299_affair_t-here-are-at-bottom-basically-two-ways_34431.jpg)
