"Hero-worship is strongest where there is least regard for human freedom"
- Herbert Spencer
About this Quote
This quote by Herbert Spencer suggests that when people are not given the flexibility to think and act for themselves, they are more likely to idolize and revere a hero figure. This hero-worship is a result of the lack of flexibility, as people are unable to make their own decisions and rather want to a leader to supply instructions and guidance. This hero-worship can be seen in many authoritarian programs, where citizens are not permitted to reveal their own opinions and rather need to follow the orders of their leader. In such cases, the leader is often viewed as a hero and is idolized by the individuals. This quote by Herbert Spencer highlights the significance of human flexibility, as it is just when individuals are provided the flexibility to think and act for themselves that they can make their own decisions and not depend on a hero figure for assistance.
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