I have always been of the mind that in a democracy manners are the only effective weapons against the bowie-knife.
James Russell LowellRead
He who is firmly seated in authority soon learns to think security, and not progress, the highest lesson in statecraft.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Authority can lead to a focus on maintaining power rather than seeking improvement.
In this quote, James Russell Lowell suggests that individuals who hold positions of power often become preoccupied with maintaining their authority and ensuring stability, rather than striving for advancement and growth in their roles. This highlights a common dilemma in leadership where the temptation to prioritize safety and security can overshadow the pursuit of innovation and progress.
Themes
AuthorityLeadershipProgressStatecraftSecurity
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the challenges of leadership, this quote could be used to illustrate the tension between security and innovation.
More from James Russell Lowell
All quotes βThe foolish and the dead alone never change their opinions.
James Russell LowellRead
Not failure, but low aim, is crime.
James Russell LowellRead
Good luck is the willing handmaid of upright, energetic character, and conscientious observance of duty.
James Russell LowellRead
Puritanism, believing itself quick with the seed of religious liberty, laid, without knowing it, the egg of democracy.
James Russell LowellRead
Books are the bees which carry the quickening pollen from one to another mind.
James Russell LowellRead
Similar quotes
But lest some unlucky event should happen unfavorable to my reputation, I beg it may be remembered by every gentleman in the room that I this day declare with the utmost sincerity, I do not think myself equal to the command I am honored with.
George WashingtonRead
To elevate the goals of humankind, to achieve high moral purpose, to realize major intended change, leaders must thrust themselves into the most intractable processes and structures of history and ultimately master them.
James Macgregor BurnsRead
The priesthood is not really so much a gift as it is a commission to serve, a privilege to lift, and an opportunity to bless the lives of others.
Thomas S. MonsonRead
I can assure you that every degree of mind and spirit that I possess will be devoted to the long-range interests of the United States and to the cause of freedom around the world.
John F. KennedyRead
I don't need a successor, only willing hands to accept the torch for a new generation.
Billy GrahamRead
Polite and velvety leaders, who take care to avoid bruising others, are generally not as effective at forcing change.
Walter IsaacsonRead