Quote by Dean Acheson, from a speech to t
The great corrupter of public man is the ego....Looking at the mirror distracts one's attention from the problem.
Summary
This quote suggests that ego is a major influence that can corrupt individuals in positions of power in public life. By placing excessive importance on oneself, individuals become self-centered and lose sight of the greater issues and problems at hand. The act of constantly looking at one's reflection in the mirror serves as a metaphor for being obsessed with oneself, which diverts attention away from solving societal issues and inhibits progress and effective decision-making. Ultimately, this quote highlights the need for individuals to prioritize the common good and stay humble in order to effectively serve the public.