Absolutes Quote by T. E. Lawrence
“In peace-armies discipline meant the hunt, not of an average but of an absolute; the hundred per cent standard in which the ninety-nine were played down to the level of the weakest man on parade… The deeper the discipline, the lower was the individual excellence; also the more sure the performance.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Seven Pillars of Wisdom, 1922
Strict collective discipline can suppress individual brilliance, yet it guarantees uniform performance.
In simple terms: Discipline lowers individuality but raises consistency.
Key Takeaway
Balance conformity with personal excellence.
Themes
discipline
individuality
performance
leadership
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- military units
- corporate teams
- sports squads
- educational settings
Key Concepts
social conformity
collective efficiency
trade‑off
Questions to Reflect On
- How can teams maintain high standards without crushing individuality?
- When is uniformity more valuable than personal talent?
A Different Perspective
May stifle innovation and morale if applied rigidly.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
