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About this quote

What does it mean?
Power influences people more effectively than words or arguments.
In plain terms
Having power convinces people better than talking.
What can you take from it?
Influence often comes from control, not persuasion.

Where it applies

  • political debates
  • business negotiations
  • leadership decisions

Putting it to work

  • recognize power dynamics
  • assess real influence

Questions to consider

  • When has power persuaded you more than arguments?
  • What power do you hold?

Another view

Words can sometimes change minds when power cannot.

More from Friedrich von Schiller

  1. Peace is rarely denied to the peaceful.

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  2. Revenge is barren of itself: it is the dreadful food it feeds on; its delight is murder, and its end is despair.

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  3. Opposition always inflames the enthusiast, never converts him.

    Permalink to quote #127

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