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About this quote

What does it mean?
He notes that power obtained by violence is hard to enjoy.
In plain terms
A throne built with bayonets is uncomfortable to sit on.
What can you take from it?
Violent power is unstable.

Where it applies

  • authoritarian rule
  • revolution

Putting it to work

  • avoid coercive tactics
  • build legitimacy

Questions to consider

  • Why do people cling to violent authority?

Another view

Some regimes maintain power through force.

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