Walter Bagehot: “If any particular power is much prized in an age, those possessed of…”

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If any particular power is much prized in an age, those possessed of that power will be imitated; those deficient in that power will be despised.

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Walter Bagehot

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Bagehot reflects on the societal dynamics of power and its impact on social status.

More from Walter Bagehot

Perhaps such powers as these are what a wise man would most seek to exercise and least fear to possess.

In early society, originality in life was forbidden and repressed by the fixed rule of life.

The moderate people of every party must combine to support the Government which, on the whole, suits every party best.

It is absurd to choose by contested party election an impartial chooser of Ministers.

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Walter Bagehot: “If any particular power is much prized in an age, those possessed of that power will be imitated; those deficient in…”