Better Quote by George R.R. Martin
““It is better to be feared than laughed at.””
About This Quote
Source Book: A Song of Ice and Fire, 2005
Power is more secure when others fear you than when they mock you, because fear deters challenges.
In simple terms: Fear protects more than humor.
Key Takeaway
Consider the cost of being feared versus liked.
Themes
power
fear
leadership
Mood
cautious
strategic
Type
advice
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political negotiations
- corporate leadership
- personal boundaries
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Is fear a sustainable strategy?
- When does fear become counterproductive?
A Different Perspective
Fear can breed resentment and isolation.
![“[Niccolò] Machiavelli said it's better to be feared than to be loved.” quote by Gary Shilling](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/6d5/gary-shilling-27568_fear_niccol-machiavelli-said-it-s-better-to-b_672289.jpg)
