Good' did not triumph. 'Evil' did not triumph. The two resolved, destroyed each other and created new 'evils', new 'goods' which slew each other in their turn.
Eric AmblerRead
In a dying civilization, political prestige is the reward not of the shrewdest diagnostician, but of the man with the best bedside manner.
Interpretation
What this quote means
In a declining society, popularity in politics often comes from charm rather than capability.
This quote by Eric Ambler reflects the idea that in times of crisis or societal decline, people tend to prioritize leaders who are personable and empathetic over those who have practical wisdom or technical skills. It suggests that charm and the ability to connect on a human level may overshadow the importance of deep understanding or expertise in governance.
Themes
PoliticsPrestigeSocietyLeadershipCharm
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the importance of leadership qualities in challenging times.
More from Eric Ambler
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Make sure your son and daughter understands they don't get to decide when or where they go to war. It is rich, predominantly white men in the House and Senate that have the power to send children of other parents - but not their own children - off to die [and] be injured in a senseless war.
Tomas YoungRead
The government should not be guided by Temporary Excitement, but by Sober Second Thought.
Martin Van BurenRead
Even the most cynical can hardly be surprised by the antics of Nixon and his accomplices as they are gradually revealed. It matters little, at this point, where the exact truth lies in the maze of perjury, evasion, and of contempt for the normal - hardly inspiring - standards of political conduct.
Noam ChomskyRead
Black women have been saving this republic since its founding. That was especially so during the Trump era when their turnout helped elect Democrats in unlikely places such as Alabama and Georgia.
Jonathan CapehartRead
I just received the following wire from my generous Daddy; Dear Jack, Don't buy a single vote more than is necessary. I'll be damned if I'm going to pay for a landslide.
John F. KennedyRead
American politics is a struggle, not of men but of forces. The men become every year more and more creatures of force, massed about central power houses.
Henry AdamsRead