Are you still to learn that the end and perfection of our victories is to avoid the vices and infirmities of those whom we subdue?
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Alexander argues that true victory lies not in conquest but in avoiding the flaws of defeated foes.
- In plain terms
- Victory means not adopting the bad habits of those you beat.
- What can you take from it?
- Winning morally means resisting corruption after success.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Does winning change a leader’s character?
- Can power be exercised without moral decay?
Another view
It assumes conquerors have the choice to remain uncorrupted.
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