Men Quote by Lyman Bryson
“The qualities that get a man into power are not those that lead him, once established, to use power wisely.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Nature of Power", 1945
Power attracts those lacking wisdom; once attained, they often misuse it due to missing virtues.
In simple terms: Power comes from unwise people; they misuse it.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate wisdom before seeking authority.
Themes
politics
leadership
ethics
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- government
- corporate leadership
- community organizing
Key Concepts
virtue ethics
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What virtues are essential for responsible power?
- How can societies enforce wise leadership?
A Different Perspective
Power can be corrupted regardless of intent.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)