Ambition Quote by Helen Mirren
“Where does this guy's ambition go? That's very peculiar. I think he's a very disturbing person, I think he's a very disturbing politician. Personally, I feel his interest is a self-interest”
About This Quote
Source Interview: The Guardian, 2018
Ambition can be driven by selfish motives, especially in politics, leading to disturbing behavior.
In simple terms: Ambition may stem from selfishness, especially in politics.
Key Takeaway
Question motives behind ambition.
Themes
politics
ambition
ethics
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
ethical
political
When to use this quote
- campaigns
- policy decisions
- public statements
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
leadership
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence shows ambition can be altruistic?
- How can we discern genuine public service?
A Different Perspective
Not all ambition is negative; it can also inspire positive change.
![“[U]nless oppressed groups stick together, and on alliances of self interest rather than do-goodism; nothing can be accomplished in the long run to dismantle the apparatus of oppression.” quote by Shulamith Firestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d7b/shulamith-firestone-12980_accomplished_u-nless-oppressed-groups-stick-together_5485.jpg)
![“[Former chief executives] come away thinking that America needs a strong, functioning presidency to succeed, and they become very protective of that office. Democrats and Republicans alike are willing to put aside their own party's self-interest to preserve the presidency. That's been true over…” quote by Nancy Gibbs](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/898/nancy-gibbs-2206_america_former-chief-executives-come-away-thinki_104173.jpg)
