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When his highness sends a ship to Egypt, does he trouble his head whether the mice on board are at their ease or not?
Voltaire
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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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