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About this quote

What does it mean?
The magician prefers people admire a flawed leader rather than no one at all.
In plain terms
It is better to admire someone than no one.
What can you take from it?
Admiration, even misdirected, beats indifference.

Where it applies

  • political commentary
  • moral dilemma
  • story analysis

Putting it to work

  • leadership critique
  • moral reasoning
  • narrative

Questions to consider

  • When is it better to admire someone?
  • Who should you admire?

Another view

Justifies misplaced admiration rather than addressing the flaw.

More from C. S. Lewis

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  2. 'A few months ago they [the Duffers] were all for washing up the plates and knives before dinner: they said it saved time afterwards. I've caught them planting…

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  3. 'Do you grow weary, Coriakin, of ruling such foolish subjects as I have given you here?' [Aslan asked.] - 'No,' said the Magician, 'they are very stupid but th…

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