A steady patriot of the world alone, The friend of every country but his own.
George CanningRead
Away with the cant of 'Measures not men!'-the idle supposition that it is the harness and not the horses that draw the chariot along.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote argues that the effectiveness of actions depends on the people involved rather than just the methods or tools used.
George Canning's quote critiques the notion that success or failure is determined solely by the systems or methods in place ('Measures not men!'). Instead, he emphasizes the importance of the individuals ('horses') performing the tasks, suggesting that their abilities and character are what truly drive progress and achievement. This illustrates a broader philosophical viewpoint that human agency and qualities are paramount in any endeavor.
Themes
MeasuresMenHorsesEfficiencySuccessLeadership
In practice
Example use cases
During a team meeting to discuss project failures, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of recognizing team members' contributions.
More from George Canning
All quotes →Similar quotes
The punitive use of force tends to generate hostility and to reinforce resistance to the very behavior we are seeking.
Marshall B. RosenbergRead
A free and truly independent press - fiercely independent when necessary - is the red beating heart of freedom and democracy.
Dan RatherRead
Everything I do is somehow rooted in humanity. It's always about people; it's always about ego. It's always about desperation. It's quite existential. You know, 'Am I leading a good life?' That might be because I'm an atheist, and I think this is all we've got, so you better be nice. And have fun.
Ricky GervaisRead
A plongeur is a slave, and a wasted slave, doing stupid and largely unnecessary work. He is kept at work, ultimately, because of a vague feeling that he would be dangerous if he had leisure. And educated people, who should be on his side, acquiesce in the process, because they know nothing about him and consequently are afraid of him.
George OrwellRead
When I was fifteen, all I wanted was to go off to some other world, a place beyond anybody’s reach. A place beyond the flow of time.” - But there’s no place like that in this world. - Exactly. Which is why I’m living here, in this world where things are continually damaged, where the heart is fickle, where time flows past without a break.
Haruki MurakamiRead
It is strange. I see all the privileges and greatness of the future. It already looks grand, beautiful. Tell them I went lovingly, trustfully, peacefully.
Thomas Starr KingRead