When statesmen forsake their own private conscience for the sake of their public duties they lead their country by a short route to chaos.

Summary

This quote suggests that when politicians prioritize their public responsibilities over their individual moral values, it can result in the destabilization of their nation. By disregarding their personal conscience in favor of fulfilling their official duties, statesmen may make decisions that ultimately lead to disorder and turmoil within their country. It implies that an abandonment of ethical principles in governance can have severe consequences on the overall well-being and stability of a nation.