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Business Quote by John Stuart Mill

“Any society which is not improving is deteriorating, and the more so the closer and more familiar it is. Even a really superior man almost always begins to deteriorate when he is habitually king of his company.” quote by John Stuart Mill
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“Any society which is not improving is deteriorating, and the more so the closer and more familiar it is. Even a really superior man almost always begins to deteriorate when he is habitually king of his company.”

John Stuart Mill

About This Quote

Source Book: On Liberty, 1859

Societies that stagnate decline, especially when leaders become complacent or overly dominant, leading to decay.

In simple terms: Stagnant societies deteriorate, especially under complacent leadership.

Key Takeaway

Encourage continual improvement and check power.

Themes

societal health leadership change

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • organizational management
  • public policy
  • community development
  • leadership training

Key Concepts

political theory ethical responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can leaders avoid becoming stagnant?
  • What mechanisms ensure societal progress?
A Different Perspective

Power can be resisted by entrenched interests.

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