Ahimsa Quote by William Butler Yeats
“So long as all is ordered for attack, and that alone, leaders will instinctively increase the number of enemies that they may give their followers something to do.”
About This Quote
Source Play: The Countess Cathleen, 1911
Leaders create conflict to give followers purpose, inflating enemies to justify action.
In simple terms: Leaders stir conflict to keep people busy.
Key Takeaway
Be aware of manufactured threats.
Themes
leadership
conflict
motivation
control
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
critical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political strategy
- military planning
- corporate management
- social movements
Key Concepts
political psychology
group dynamics
purpose
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you notice when challenges are created to keep you occupied?
- How does this affect your sense of agency?
A Different Perspective
Leaders may also seek genuine threats, not just manufactured ones.
