Arbitrary Quote by Lord Chesterfield
“Arbitrary power has seldom... been introduced in any country at once. It must be introduced by slow degrees, and as it were step by step.”
About This Quote
Source Letter: Advice to a Young Politician, 1748
Power should be introduced gradually, step by step, rather than abruptly across an entire nation.
In simple terms: Introduce power slowly, not all at once.
Key Takeaway
Implement changes incrementally.
Themes
politics
change
governance
Mood
cautious
strategic
Type
historical
political
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- legislative amendments
- organizational restructuring
- social movements
Key Concepts
gradualism
institutional design
Questions to Reflect On
- What risks arise from sudden reforms?
- How can you gauge the right pace of change?
A Different Perspective
Rapid change can cause instability and resistance.
