Ambition Quote by Margaret Thatcher
“Object to merit and distinction, and you're setting your face against quality, independence, originality, genius against all the richness and variety of life. When you hold back the successful, you penalize those who need help.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Conservative Party Conference, United Kingdom, 1979
Valuing merit and originality means opposing mediocrity and embracing diverse strengths; suppressing success harms those who need assistance.
In simple terms: Support merit and originality, not mediocrity.
Key Takeaway
Promote quality and help the underprivileged.
Themes
merit
originality
social responsibility
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- business innovation
- social welfare programs
- public discourse
Key Concepts
political philosophy
economic policy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies reward merit while supporting the disadvantaged?
- What risks arise from over‑emphasizing originality?
A Different Perspective
Balancing meritocracy with equity can be challenging.
![“[When asked how it felt to be a female prime minister:] I don't know: I've never experienced the alternative.” quote by Margaret Thatcher](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/324/margaret-thatcher-463_alternatives_when-asked-how-it-felt-to-be-a-female-pr_15081.jpg)
