Alas Quote by Lin Yutang
“Alas, our rulers are not gods, but puny, fallible men, like the kings who constantly forget their parts, and we common men should be their prompters.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Importance of Being Human, 1937
Leaders are fallible; common people must remind them of their duties.
In simple terms: Leaders err, people must guide them.
Hold leaders accountable.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- government decisions
- corporate governance
- community meetings
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can citizens constructively influence leaders?
- What mechanisms ensure balanced accountability?
Overemphasis on common people can lead to populism.