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Herd Quote by Friedrich Nietzsche

“…how ready they themselves are at bottom to make one pay; how they crave to be hangmen. There is among them an abundance of the vengeful disguised as judges, who constantly bear the word “justice” in their mouths like poisonous spittle, always with pursed lips, always ready to spit upon all who…” quote by Friedrich Nietzsche
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““…how ready they themselves are at bottom to make one pay; how they crave to be hangmen. There is among them an abundance of the vengeful disguised as judges, who constantly bear the word “justice” in their mouths like poisonous spittle, always with pursed lips, always ready to spit upon all who are not discontented but go their own way in good spirits…The will of the weak to represent some form of superiority, their instinct for devious paths to tyranny over the healthy – where can it not be discovered, this will to power of the weakest!””

Friedrich Nietzsche

About This Quote

The weak often disguise their desire for power as justice, using deceit and tyranny while claiming moral authority.

In simple terms: The powerless may seek power through false justice.

Key Takeaway

Beware of hidden motives behind claims of justice.

Themes

power justice deception

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • legal judgments
  • organizational leadership

Key Concepts

political philosophy morality psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you discern genuine justice from manipulative claims?
  • What safeguards protect societies from corrupt authority?
A Different Perspective

Not all claims of justice are malicious.

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