Government Quote by Thomas Carlyle
““Surely of all ‘rights of man’, this right of the ignorant man to be guided by the wiser, to be, gently or forcibly, held in the true course by him, is the indisputablest.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Essay on the Rights of Man, 1845
Advocates that the ignorant should be guided by the wise, even if forcefully, as a fundamental right.
In simple terms: Guidance by the wise is a right.
Key Takeaway
Respect wise leadership.
Themes
authority
responsibility
wisdom
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- education policy
- parenting decisions
Key Concepts
paternalism
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- When is guidance too controlling?
- Who decides who is wise?
A Different Perspective
Potential for abuse of power.
