Admire and adore the Author of the telescopic universe, love and esteem the work, do all in your power to lessen ill, and increase good, but never assume to comprehend.
John AdamsRead
Because power corrupts, society's demands for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases.
Interpretation
What this quote means
As positions of power become more significant, the expectation for moral integrity and character increases due to the potential for corruption.
John Adams suggests that with greater power comes a higher expectation for ethical behavior and strong character. This is a recognition of the fact that those in positions of authority are more susceptible to corruption, so society must demand individuals in such roles to uphold strong moral standards to ensure trust and accountability.
Themes
PowerCorruptionLeadershipMoralityAuthoritySociety
In practice
Example use cases
This quote could be used in a seminar on ethical leadership.
More from John Adams
All quotes βProperty monopolized or in the possession of a few is a curse to mankind.
John AdamsRead
Let us dare to read, think, speak and write.
John AdamsRead
There are two ways to conquer and enslave a country. One is by the sword. The other is by debt.
John AdamsRead
Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
John AdamsRead
The furnace of affliction produces refinement, in states as well as individuals.
John AdamsRead
Similar quotes
To not apologize for the behavior of the players to another manager is unthinkable. It's a disgrace, but I don't expect Wenger to ever apologize...he's that type of person.
Alex FergusonRead
I say that every prince must desire to be considered merciful and not cruel. He must, however, take care not to misuse this mercifulness.
Niccolo MachiavelliRead
I don't just try to score. The challenge is elevating my teammates to be able to win a championship.
Kobe BryantRead
I didn't plan to be a politician. The founder of our country, David Ben-Gurion, called me from the kibbutz to serve in the underground. We were short of manpower, short of arms. I was 24 years old. I was supposed to serve my country for one or two years. I am 89 years old this year, and I keep going.
Shimon PeresRead
The aim of leadership should be to improve the performance of man and machine, to improve quality, to increase output, and simultaneously to bring pride of workmanship to people. Put in a negative way, the aim of leadership is not merely to find and record failures of men, but to remove the causes of failure: to help people to do a better job with less effort.
W. Edwards DemingRead
To be the ultimate team, you must use your body and your mind. Draw up on the resources of your teammates. Choose your steps wisely and you will win. Remember, only teams succeed.
Jose MourinhoRead