Quote by P. J. O'Rourke

Authority has always attracted the lowest elements in the human race. All through history mankind has been bullied by scum. Those who lord it over their fellows and toss commands in every direction and would boss the grass in the meadow about which way to bend in the wind are the most depraved kind of prostitutes. They will submit to any indignity, perform any vile act, do anything to achieve power. The worst off-sloughings of the planet are the ingredients of sovereignty. Every government is a parliament of whores. The trouble is, in a democracy the whores are us.

Authority has always attracted the lowest elements in the hu

Summary

The quote suggests that those who seek authority or hold positions of power often possess unfavorable qualities. Throughout history, mankind has been oppressed by individuals who abuse their authority and impose their will on others. The quote likens these authoritative figures to depraved prostitutes who would stoop to any level to attain and maintain power. It goes on to proclaim that every government is essentially made up of such undesirable individuals. In a democracy, the quote emphasizes that the people themselves are responsible for enabling and supporting these "whores" in positions of authority.

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By P. J. O'Rourke

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