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About this quote

What does it mean?
Few generous people will despise the gentle act of ruling after acquiring power.
In plain terms
Generosity often fades once one gains authority.
What can you take from it?
Beware how power can change attitudes towards kindness.

Where it applies

  • political leadership
  • organizational hierarchy

Putting it to work

  • maintaining humility
  • cultivating empathy

Questions to consider

  • How can leaders keep generosity alive after success?

Another view

Not all who gain power become less generous; some remain steadfast.

More from Pierre Corneille

  1. L'exemple souvent n'est qu'un miroir trompeur; Et l'ordre du destin qui gene nos pensees N'est pas toujours ecrit dans les choses passees.

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  2. Le pire des Etats, c'est l'Etat populaire.

    Permalink to quote #27
  3. L'ambition deplait quand elle est assouvie... Monte sur le faite, il aspire a descendre.

    Permalink to quote #24

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