Capable Quote by Tacitus
“By general consent, he would have been capable of ruling, had he not ruled.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Annals by Tacitus, 1st century AD
Power can be lost when one actually assumes it, revealing a paradox of authority.
In simple terms: Ruling can make one unfit to rule.
Key Takeaway
Beware the corrupting effect of power.
Themes
authority
paradox
leadership
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political office
- corporate management
- community leadership
Key Concepts
political theory
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How does holding power change decision‑making?
- Can one stay effective while in authority?
A Different Perspective
Power may erode competence over time.
![“None mourn more ostentatiously than those who most rejoice at it [a death].” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/36d/tacitus-1552_death_none-mourn-more-ostentatiously-than-thos_13591.jpg)
![“None mourn more ostentatiously over the death of Germanicus than those who most rejoice at it [a death].” quote by Tacitus](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/192/tacitus-1552_death_none-mourn-more-ostentatiously-over-the_123648.jpg)
![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
