Bad idea Quote by Mira Grant
““The problem with people who have power is that they start thinking more about what it takes to keep that power than they do about whats right or wrong or just plain a bad idea. Here's a tip for you: if you're ever in a position to be making calls on right and wrong that can impact an entire nation, run your decisions past a six year old. If they look at you in horror and tell you you're getting coal in your stocking for the rest of your life, you should probably reconsider your course of action. Unless you want to be remembered as a monster, in which case, knock yourself out.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview on political ethics, 2020
Power can distort judgment, making leaders prioritize retaining control over moral rightness; a simple test of childlike honesty can reveal ethical failures.
In simple terms: Power corrupts; test decisions with child honesty.
Key Takeaway
Check decisions with basic moral intuition.
Themes
ethics
leadership
power
morality
responsibility
Mood
concerned
critical
reflective
Type
advice
warning
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political decision making
- policy drafting
- leadership training
- public accountability
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
psychology
political theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How would a child react to a controversial policy?
- Can simple moral tests replace thorough analysis?
A Different Perspective
Children may lack nuance, so their horror may oversimplify complex issues.
