There is something about the state putting the power to bully into the hands of subnormal, sadistic apes that makes my blood boil.
Interpretation
This quote critiques the misuse of power by those who are unfit for it.
Gore Vidal's quote expresses frustration and anger at how power can fall into the hands of individuals who lack the moral integrity or capability to wield it responsibly. It highlights the dangers of a system that allows unqualified or cruel people to control and bully others, stirring a visceral reaction against such abuse of authority.
In practice
In a speech about political accountability, this quote can illustrate the dangers of unchecked power.
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.
Helping convene global stakeholders to establish a set of measurable, actionable and consensus-built goals focused on extreme poverty is invaluable.
The collection of taxes which are not absolutely required, which do not beyond reasonable doubt contribute to public welfare, is only a species of legalized larceny. Under this Republic the rewards of industry belong to those who earn them.
The sinews of war are infinite money.
There is something in animals beside the power of motion. They are not machines; they feel.
Faced with the pain of freedom, man begs for his shackles.
It appears to be in the nature of religion itself to be prejudiced against those who are different.
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