Quotation by

John Adams

Because power corrupts, society's demands for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases.

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Understanding this quote AI Analysis

As a person gains more power, they are more likely to misuse it, so people expect them to have stronger moral values and good character. This means that the higher the position someone holds, the more society insists they behave ethically and responsibly.

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Nearly all men can stand adversity, but if you want to test a man's character, give him power.

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All things are subject to interpretation whichever interpretation prevails at a given time is a function of power and not truth.
I hope our wisdom will grow with our power, and teach us, that the less we use our power the greater it will be.