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The great must submit to the dominion of prudence and of virtue, or none will long submit to the dominion of the great.
Edmund Burke
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Interpretation

What this quote means

True leadership requires wisdom and virtue; otherwise, people will not follow you for long.

This quote by Edmund Burke emphasizes that greatness and power are not enough for true leadership. Those who hold power must exercise prudence and virtue, as reliable guidance rooted in integrity is essential for maintaining the loyalty and respect of their followers. If leaders do not embody these qualities, their authority will be undermined, and they will lose the support of the people.

Themes

LeadershipVirtueGreatnessWisdomPracticality

In practice

Example use cases

During a seminar on ethical leadership, this quote can be used to illustrate the importance of moral integrity in positions of power.

More from Edmund Burke

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Society can overlook murder, adultery or swindling; it never forgives preaching of a new gospel.
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The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.
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