Of what use is a philosopher who doesn't hurt anybody's feelings?
DiogenesRead
The mob is the mother of tyrants.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that large groups of people can support oppressive leaders or regimes.
Diogenes' quote reflects the idea that the masses, or mobs, can be easily swayed and manipulated, often giving rise to tyrants who exploit their power. It implies that when individuals lose their critical thinking in favor of conformity, they contribute to the establishment of oppressive authority figures.
Themes
MobTyrantPowerOppressionAuthority
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is relevant during discussions about political movements and the dangers of populism.
More from Diogenes
All quotes βThe art of being a slave is to rule one's master.
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As a matter of self-preservation, a man needs good friends or ardent enemies, for the former instruct him and the latter take him to task.
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I am not an Athenian or a Greek, but a citizen of the world.
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We come into the world alone and we die alone. Why, in life, should we be any less alone?
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All things are in common among friends.
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