Skip to content

Believe Quote by Bertrand Russell

“Most political leaders acquire their position by causing large numbers of people to believe that these leaders are actuated by altruistic desires” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
“Most political leaders acquire their position by causing large numbers of people to believe that these leaders are actuated by altruistic desires”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

Source Book: Why I Am Not a Christian by Bertrand Russell, 1927

Power often rests on convincing the public that leaders act out of selfless motives, even when they do not.

In simple terms: Leaders claim altruism to gain power.

Key Takeaway

Question motives, demand accountability.

Themes

politics power trust

Mood

skeptical critical

Type

analytical political

When to use this quote

  • elections
  • policy debates
  • public speeches
  • media campaigns

Key Concepts

social psychology leadership legitimacy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you verify a leader’s true motives?
  • What safeguards can reduce deceptive altruism?
A Different Perspective

Public may resist or be unaware of manipulation.

3.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Believe quotes

Browse all 47,716 Believe quotes