Single Idea 20229

[catalogued under 24. Political Theory / C. Ruling a State / 2. Leaders / c. Despotism]

Full Idea

As long as the world has existed, no authority has ever willingly permitted itself to become the object of critique.

Gist of Idea

No authority ever willingly accepts criticism

Source

Friedrich Nietzsche (Dawn (Daybreak) [1881], Pref 3)

Book Reference

Nietzsche,Friedrich: 'Dawn (Daybreak) (v 5)', ed/tr. Smith, Brittain [Stanford 2011], p.3


A Reaction

A political remark, but it leads into speaking of conventional morality as just such an authority. Nowadays teachers have feedback forms, and leaders have to endure party conferences. But on the whole it remains true.