Great advantage is drawn from knowledge of your adversary, and when you know the measure of his intelligence and character, you can use it to play on his weakness.
Frederick The GreatRead
I love opposition that has convictions.
Interpretation
Valuing strong beliefs in opposition leads to fruitful discussions and growth.
Frederick the Great emphasizes the importance of engaging with those who hold strong convictions, even when they oppose us. Such opposition can spark meaningful dialogue, challenging our own beliefs and leading to greater understanding and personal growth.
In practice
In a debate, you might say this quote to encourage respect for differing opinions.
Great advantage is drawn from knowledge of your adversary, and when you know the measure of his intelligence and character, you can use it to play on his weakness.
Religion is the idol of the mob; it adores everything it does not understand.
It seems to me that man is made to act rather than to know: the principles of things escape our most persevering researches.
I begin by taking. I shall find scholars later to demonstrate my perfect right.
No government can exist without taxation. The money must necessarily be levied on the people; and the grand art consists of levying so as not to oppress.
It is pardonable to be defeated, but never to be surprised.
My vision of a 'new world order' foresees a United Nations with a revitalized peacekeeping function.
We focus on two things when hiring. First, find the best people you can in the world. And second, let them do their work. Just get out of their way.
I was always an independent, even when I had partners.
In a free government the demand for moral qualities should be made superior to that of talents.
Persistence in a single view has never been regarded as a merit in political leaders.
Leaders don't make excuses. They create results
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