Political Quotes

Walter Bagehot: The great qualities, the imperious will, the rapid energy, the eager nature fit for a great crisis are not required--are…

On the record
The great qualities, the imperious will, the rapid energy, the eager nature fit for a great crisis are not required--are impediments--in common times; A Lord Liverpool is better in everyday politics than a Chatham--a Louis Philippe far better than a Napoleon.
Said by
Walter Bagehot

Editor's note · Context

Bagehot contrasts the qualities needed in leaders during normal times versus crises, favoring stability over crisis-driven traits.

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