Character Quote by J. William Fulbright
“Power confuses itself with virtue and tends also to take itself for omnipotence.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Political commentary, 1975
Power can mistakenly equate itself with virtue and become overconfident, believing it to be all-powerful.
In simple terms: Power can corrupt virtue and foster omnipotence.
Key Takeaway
Stay humble and accountable in positions of power.
Themes
power
virtue
hubris
accountability
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government roles
- corporate leadership
- nonprofit management
- community activism
Key Concepts
ethical leadership
political theory
self-awareness
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you check your own power?
- What systems ensure accountability?
A Different Perspective
Humility may be seen as weakness; balance required.
![“To give [the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba] even covert support is on a par with the hypocrisy and cynicism for which the United States is constantly denouncing the Soviet Union in the United Nations and elsewhere. This point will not be lost on the rest of the world, nor on our own consciences.” quote by J. William Fulbright](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/48f/j-william-fulbright-7682_bay-of-pigs_to-give-the-bay-of-pigs-invasion-of-cuba_203573.jpg)
