I began life as an absolute monarchist - on condition, of course, that I be that monarch.
Interpretation
The quote reflects a self-centered view of power and authority, suggesting a desire for control.
Gore Vidal's quote humorously reveals the irony in the desire for absolute power, highlighting how such ambitions are often contingent on personal gain. Instead of advocating for the general welfare, the statement underscores a selfish inclination towards leadership, implying that the aspiration for greatness is often tied to individual interests rather than altruistic motives.
In practice
During a debate on political theory, one might use this quote to illustrate the potential for corruption in leadership.
We must declare ourselves, become known; allow the world to discover this subterranean life of ours which connects kings and farm boys, artists and clerks. Let them see that the important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
American writers want to be not good but great; and so are neither.
Writing fiction has become a priestly business in countries that have lost their faith.
The important thing is not the object of love, but the emotion itself.
For the average American, freedom of speech is simply the freedom to repeat what everyone else is saying and no more.
Ayn Rand's 'philosophy' is nearly perfect in its immorality, which makes the size of her audience all the more ominous and symptomatic as we enter a curious new phase in our society.... To justify and extol human greed and egotism is to my mind not only immoral, but evil.
Switzerland is a country where very few things begin, but many things end.
When feminism falls short of our expectations, we decide the problem is with feminism rather than with the flawed people who act in the name of the movement.
and god help you if you are an ugly girl course too pretty is also your doom cause everyone harbors a secret hatred for the prettiest girl in the room and god help you if you are a pheonix and you dare to rise up from the ash a thousand eyes will smolder with jealousy while you are just flying back
Well the real concept of basic needs if you cut it right down are simply the physical needs that are unavoidable for all of us. So to have enough calories to keep our bodies going. Have shelter from extreme elements. To have water that is safe to drink, So I think that's the core of it.
The understanding of "evolutionary consciousness" is perhaps the most important thing lacking in spiritual practices today. Evolution means growth and development. This means that there are aspects of reality that have not yet arisen in our consciousness. But they will arise if we grow.
Meditation is not following any system; it is not constant repetition and imitation. Meditation is not concentration.
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