Absolute power Quote by Isocrates
““Absolute power is universally coveted, though all know that an absolute ruler has an anxious life and usually a violent death.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Political Oration, 4th century BC
Absolute power attracts desire, yet it brings anxiety and often a violent end.
In simple terms: Power is coveted but leads to fear and danger.
Key Takeaway
Beware the costs of unchecked authority.
Themes
power
anxiety
violence
Mood
cautious
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- leadership
- political ambition
- authoritarian regimes
Key Concepts
political philosophy
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to hold power without fear?
- What safeguards prevent violent outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Absolute power can be mitigated by checks and balances.
![“As Israel made the wants of his national existence the law of the world, as under the dominance of these wants he deified even his political vindictiveness; so the Christian made the requirements of human feeling the absolute powers and laws of the world. [T]hat is, indeed, only of man considered…” quote by Ludwig Feuerbach](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dd1/ludwig-feuerbach-3406_abrahamism_as-israel-made-the-wants-of-his-national_31284.jpg)
