Prejudices are what fools use for reason.
VoltaireRead
When his highness sends a ship to Egypt, does he trouble his head whether the mice on board are at their ease or not?
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote critiques the indifference of those in power towards the concerns of the common people.
Voltaire's quote reflects on the lack of concern that leaders or those in power often have for the well-being of individuals under their authority. By likening the situation to a highness sending a ship to Egypt without caring about the comfort of the mice on board, he illustrates how those in high positions may be oblivious or apathetic to the struggles of those less fortunate.
Themes
IndifferencePowerConcernLeadershipPhilosophy
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used to emphasize the importance of empathy in leadership during a political debate.
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