History is a myth that men agree to believe.
Among those who dislike oppression are many who like to oppress.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the hypocrisy of those who oppose oppression yet may engage in oppressive behavior themselves.
Napoleon Bonaparte's quote sheds light on the irony present within human nature. It points out that while many individuals may outwardly express disdain for oppression, they can simultaneously exhibit oppressive tendencies, whether out of power, fear, or self-interest. This contradiction suggests that the dislike for oppression does not guarantee the absence of oppressive behavior, leading to a deeper discussion about morality and self-awareness in contexts of power dynamics.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on social justice, one might quote this to highlight the complexities of human behavior.
More from Napoleon Bonaparte
All quotes βOne must indeed be ignorant of the methods of genius to suppose that it allows itself to be cramped by forms. Forms are for mediocrity, and it is fortunate that mediocrity can act only according to routine. Ability takes its flight unhindered.
One can lead a nation only by helping it see a bright outlook. A leader is a dealer in hope.
We must laugh at man to avoid crying for him.
Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.
It is my wish that my ashes may repose on the banks of the Seine, in the midst of the French people, whom I have loved so well.
Similar quotes
Neither fear nor self-interest can convert the soul. They may change the appearance, perhaps even the conduct, but never the object of supreme desire... Fear is the motive which constrains the slave; greed binds the selfish man, by which he is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed (James 1:14). But neither fear nor self-interest is undefiled, nor can they convert the soul. Only charity can convert the soul, freeing it from unworthy motives.
In his dream she was sick and he cared for her. The dream bore the look of sacrifice but he thought differently. He did not take care of her and she died alone somewhere in the dark and there is no other dream nor other waking world and there is no other tale to tell.
Nothing that was real ever died, only names, forms, and illusions.
Neither a Fortress nor a Maidenhead will hold out long after they begin to parley.
I think the greatest weakness in the church today is that almost no one believes that God invests His power in the Bible. Everyone is looking for power in a program, in a methodology, in a technique, in anything and everything but that in which God has placed itβHis Word. He alone has the power to change lives for eternity, and that power is focused on the Scriptures.
The laws only can determine the punishment of crimes, and the authority of making penal laws can only reside with the legislator, who represents the whole society united by the social compact.