Adulation Quote by Edmund Burke
“Flattery corrupts both the receiver and the giver; and adulation is not of more service to the people than to kings.”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: Reflections on the Revolution in France, 1790
Flattery and adulation harm both giver and receiver, offering little public benefit.
In simple terms: Flattery corrupts everyone and serves no public good.
Seek sincere dialogue over empty praise.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- political speeches
- corporate culture
- personal interactions
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- When is praise constructive?
- How to balance humility and confidence?
Flattery may be useful in diplomacy.