Belief Quote by Blaise Pascal
![“If they [Plato and Aristotle] wrote about politics it was as if to lay down rules for a madhouse. And if they pretended to treat it as something really important it was because they knew that the madmen they were talking to believed themselves to be kings and emperors. They humoured these beliefs…” quote by Blaise Pascal](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/eb5/blaise-pascal-167_belief_if-they-plato-and-aristotle-wrote-about_343108.jpg)
““If they [Plato and Aristotle] wrote about politics it was as if to lay down rules for a madhouse. And if they pretended to treat it as something really important it was because they knew that the madmen they were talking to believed themselves to be kings and emperors. They humoured these beliefs in order to calm down their madness with as little harm as possible.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Pensées by Blaise Pascal, 1670
Pascal critiques political philosophers for treating chaotic governance as if it were orderly, noting they placate delusional rulers to minimize damage.
In simple terms: He says they soothe crazy leaders to avoid harm.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and gently correct chaotic authority.
Themes
politics
madness
leadership
humility
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government reform
- organizational management
- conflict resolution
- public policy
Key Concepts
philosophy
political theory
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance soothing with challenging authority?
- When is it better to confront rather than placate?
A Different Perspective
Their approach may enable harmful ideas to persist under the guise of calm.
