The necessity for power is obvious, because life cannot be lived without order; but the allocation of power is arbitrary because all men are alike, or very nearly. Yet power must not seem to be arbitrarily allocated, because it will not then be recognized as power. Therefore prestige, which is illusion, is of the very essence of power. [p.235]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Power is needed for order, but its distribution feels arbitrary, so societies create prestige to legitimize it.
- In plain terms
- We need power, but we mask its randomness with prestige.
- What can you take from it?
- Be aware that prestige can hide the arbitrary nature of power.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What are the consequences of treating prestige as truth?
- How can societies ensure fair power distribution?
Another view
Prestige can also be a genuine marker of expertise, not just illusion.
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