I don't think, sir, that you have a right to command me, merely because you are older than I, or because you have seen more of the world than I have; your claim to superiority depends on the use you have made of your time and experience.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Authority should be earned through experience and wisdom, not granted solely by age or seniority.
- In plain terms
- You don't deserve power just because you're older or have seen more.
- What can you take from it?
- Earn authority through experience, not just age.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When have you questioned authority?
- How do you show respect?
Another view
Age often correlates with wisdom even if not guaranteed.
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