The arbitrary rule of a just and enlightened prince is always bad. His virtues are the most dangerous and the surest form of seduction: they lull a people imperceptibly into the habit of loving, respecting, and serving his successor, whoever that successor may be, no matter how wicked or stupid.

Denis Diderot (1713-1784) French editor, philosopher
“Refutation of Helvétius” (1773-76)

 
Added on 23-Jan-08 | Last updated 23-Jan-08
Link to this post | No comments
More quotes by Diderot, Denis

Thoughts? Comments? Corrections? Feedback?