Skip to content

Care Quote by Woodrow Wilson

“The competent leader of men cares little for the niceties of other peoples' characters: he cares much--everything--for the exterior uses to which they may be put… These are men to be moved. How should he move them? He supplies the power; others simply the materials on which that power operates.” quote by Woodrow Wilson
Download Open image
“The competent leader of men cares little for the niceties of other peoples' characters: he cares much--everything--for the exterior uses to which they may be put… These are men to be moved. How should he move them? He supplies the power; others simply the materials on which that power operates.”

Woodrow Wilson

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to the American University, 1913

A leader focuses on how people can be used as tools rather than judging their character, emphasizing power over material.

In simple terms: Leaders prioritize utility over personal traits.

Key Takeaway

Use people as means, not ends.

Themes

leadership power utilitarianism

Mood

authoric pragmatic

Type

political motivational

When to use this quote

  • political strategy
  • team management
  • organizational design

Key Concepts

political theory instrumentalism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance utility with respect for individuality?
  • What are the risks of viewing people as mere tools?
A Different Perspective

May ignore individual dignity and morale.

3.0 out of 5 (7 ratings)

More by Woodrow Wilson

Explore all 492 Woodrow Wilson quotes

More Care quotes

Browse all 19,019 Care quotes