Born Quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton
![“THERE are no wise few; for in all men rages the folly of the Fall. Take your strongest, happiest, handsomest, best born, best bred, best instructed men on earth and give them special power for half an hour and because they are men they will begin to [perform] badly.” quote by Gilbert K. Chesterton](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7fe/gilbert-k-chesterton-223_born_there-are-no-wise-few-for-in-all-men-rag_338443.jpg)
“THERE are no wise few; for in all men rages the folly of the Fall. Take your strongest, happiest, handsomest, best born, best bred, best instructed men on earth and give them special power for half an hour and because they are men they will begin to [perform] badly.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Man Who Was Thursday" (or similar) by G. K. Chesterton, 1908
Power reveals human weakness; even the most virtuous become flawed when given authority.
In simple terms: Even good people act badly with power.
Key Takeaway
Beware of granting unchecked authority.
Themes
human nature
power
corruption
virtue
humility
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
warning
When to use this quote
- leadership
- government
- corporate management
- judicial authority
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- Can any system prevent power from corrupting?
- What safeguards protect virtuous leaders?
A Different Perspective
Power can corrupt regardless of personal merit.
![“[The] United States is proud to stand with you as your strongest ally and greatest friend. I see this visit as an opportunity to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between our nations, to restate America's unwavering commitment to Israel's security, and to speak directly to Israel and to your neighbors.” quote by Barack Obama](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/544/barack-obama-17_allies_the-united-states-is-proud-to-stand-with_996499.jpg)
