"He makes a great mistake... who supposes that authority is firmer or better established when it is founded by force than that which is welded by affection"
- Terence
About this Quote
This quote by Terence speaks with the power of love and love in developing authority. He suggests that authority that is based on force is not as strong or dependable as authority that is based on love and love. He indicates that when authority is based upon force, it is more likely to be challenged or toppled. This is because individuals are most likely to follow and appreciate authority that is based upon love and affection, rather than authority that is based on worry and intimidation.
Terence's quote also talks to the value of relationships in establishing authority. He suggests that when authority is based on relationships, it is more likely to be respected and followed. This is due to the fact that individuals are more likely to trust and respect authority that is based on shared regard and understanding.
Eventually, Terence's quote talks to the power of relationships in developing authority. He recommends that authority that is based upon love and love is most likely to be appreciated and followed than authority that is based on worry and intimidation. He indicates that when authority is based on relationships, it is more likely to be respected and followed, and is therefore more likely to be effective.
"To be really great in little things, to be truly noble and heroic in the insipid details of everyday life, is a virtue so rare as to be worthy of canonization"
"Having soon discovered to be great, I must appear so, and therefore studiously avoided mixing in society, and wrapped myself in mystery, devoting my time to fasting and prayer"