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About this quote

What does it mean?
Kings exist to serve the people's need for order rather than having inherent divine status.
In plain terms
Leaders are created by people to keep things peaceful like a family head.
What can you take from it?
Leadership is a practical tool for order, not a sacred right.

Where it applies

  • government formation
  • family structure
  • organization

Putting it to work

  • evaluate leaders by service
  • question authority roles

Questions to consider

  • Why do we need leaders?
  • Is authority always practical?

Another view

Some systems view leadership as inherent rather than purely functional.

More from John Selden

  1. Preachers say, Do as I say, not as I do.

    Permalink to quote #21
  2. Pleasure is nothing else but the intermission of pain.

    Permalink to quote #20
  3. Wise men say nothing in dangerous times.

    Permalink to quote #19

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