"Men want power in order to do something. Boys want power in order to be something"
About this Quote
Eric Sevareid's quote, "Men desire power in order to do something. Kids want power in order to be something", offers an extensive commentary on maturity, objective, and the use of power. It draws a plain contrast between maturity and immaturity, highlighting a fundamental difference in how people prioritize their objectives and use power.
The essence of the quote suggests that fully grown people, signified by "guys", seek power with a function beyond their own self-interest. They want power as a means to an end-- whether it's to accomplish significant goals, initiate positive modification, or contribute to society. Their pursuit of power is lined up with a sense of duty and a vision that transcends personal gain. For them, power is a tool that enables productive action and enables the realization of objectives that benefit others or forward a higher cause. This shows a matured sense of identity where one's actions specify one's being.
On the other hand, the "kids" in the quote represent people who are driven by a more immature or superficial understanding of power. They prefer power as an end in itself, corresponding the ownership of power with identity and self-regard. This shows a less industrialized sense of self, where being effective is more about status, image, or recognition rather than the ability to effect modification. For them, power is associated with significance or significance, a means to affirm their identity or fill a devoid of insecurity.
Sevareid's insight can be used broadly to people navigating numerous spheres of life-- be it in personal relationships, professional environments, or societal functions. The quote challenges people to assess their motivations and to consider whether their pursuit of power is driven by fully grown intentions to make an effect or immature desires for self-aggrandizement. It suggests that true maturity involves understanding that power should not simply magnify oneself but rather act as a conduit for accomplishing meaningful outcomes and making a positive distinction.
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