It is not power that corrupts but fear.
Meaning
Aung San Suu Kyi explains that corruption stems from fear—fear of losing power or fear of consequences. This highlights the psychological roots of unethical behavior.
Best Wisdom Quotes with Meaning
Share image
Preview of the image used when this quote is shared on social networks.
About the author
(born 1945) is a Myanmar political leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate known for her role in the country’s pro-democracy movement. She spent years under house arrest while advocating for democratic reforms and human rights. Her leadership brought global attention to Myanmar’s political struggles. However, her later political career has been marked by controversy regarding human rights issues. Despite this, her early efforts symbolized resilience and the fight for democracy. Aung San Suu Kyi remains a complex and debated figure in global politics, representing both hope and criticism in modern leadership.
Why This Quote Matters
What makes this line memorable is how plainly Aung San Suu Kyi states the case for Truth. The idea holds up because Aung San Suu Kyi explains that corruption stems from fear—fear of losing power or fear of consequences.
This highlights the psychological roots of unethical behavior. Return to it after setbacks; it reads differently each time. That’s the quiet value in returning to Aung San Suu Kyi’s words.
How to Apply This Quote in Life
Start small: choose a moment each day to test whether Aung San Suu Kyi explains that corruption stems from fear—fear of losing power or fear of consequences. This highlights the psychological roots of unethical behavior.
still feels true. Progress here is quiet; don’t expect applause for showing up. Let the quote be a filter: say yes to what strengthens Truth, no to what erodes it. That’s a fair test of whether the idea holds up in your life.
Related quotes
-
“Definitions belong to the definers, not the defined.”
Meaning: This quote reflects power dynamics in society. Those who control narratives shape identity and perception. -
“The trouble is that once you see it, you can’t unsee it.”
Meaning: Awareness changes perception permanently. -
“Our weapon is our truth.”
Meaning: Honesty and integrity are powerful tools in conflict and leadership. -
“Freedom of mind is the real freedom.”
Meaning: True freedom comes from independent thinking. -
“We are all complicit in what we allow to happen.”
Meaning: Inaction also has consequences. -
“Freedom is not just a word, it is a responsibility.”
Meaning: Freedom requires accountability. -
“The whole secret lies in confusing the enemy, so that he cannot fathom our real intent.”
Meaning: Unpredictability is a powerful tool in strategy. Keeping intentions hidden prevents opponents from preparing effectively. -
“Ideas are more powerful than we commonly understand.”
Meaning: Concepts and theories shape real-world outcomes. -
“The role of art is not to comfort, but to expose the deeper layers of existence.”
Meaning: Art reveals truth. -
“The right to be heard does not automatically include the right to be taken seriously.”
Meaning: While everyone has the right to express opinions, credibility depends on the value and substance of what is said. This quote highlights the importance of thoughtful and informed communication.