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About this quote

What does it mean?
Cromwell asserts that governance should prioritize what is beneficial for people rather than what they demand.
In plain terms
He believes leaders should do what is good for people, not just what they want.
What can you take from it?
Lead with paternalistic care focused on outcomes over popular demand.

Where it applies

  • policy making
  • public administration
  • crisis management

Putting it to work

  • prioritize welfare over popularity
  • exercise informed judgment

Questions to consider

  • Who defines what is good for others?
  • When is paternalism justified?

Another view

This approach risks disregarding democratic input and autonomy.

More from Oliver Cromwell

  1. Not only strike while the iron is hot, but make it hot by striking.

    Permalink to quote #49
  2. On becoming soldiers we have not ceased to be citizens.

    Permalink to quote #51
  3. Let us restore the king to his throne, and let the king in future agree to govern with the consent of Parliament. Let us restore the old church, with its bisho…

    Permalink to quote #48

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