Western people ask me whether it is a paradox that I am King but support democracy. I have to tell them that in Thailand, the King is the guarantor of democracy.
Bhumibol AdulyadejRead
People get angry at others who express a different opinion, while, in fact, they should be angry at themselves. But we must be angry at ourselves the most when we say something today, only to say something else tomorrow.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and consistency in our beliefs and opinions.
Bhumibol Adulyadej highlights a common human tendency to react with anger towards others for differing opinions rather than confronting our own contradictions. He suggests that we should recognize our own flaws and inconsistencies in thought as a greater source of frustration, as it undermines our integrity and credibility when we change our statements or beliefs over time.
Themes
Self-ReflectionConsistencyOpinionAngerIntegrity
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about political beliefs, one might use this quote to remind participants to consider their own changing views.
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They say that a kingdom is like a pyramid: the king on top and the people below. But in this country, it's upside down.
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