"Power is action; the electoral principle is discussion. No political action is possible when discussion is permanently established"
- Honore de Balzac
About this Quote
In this quote, Honore de Balzac highlights the value of both power and conversation in the political world. He specifies that power is associated with action, suggesting that it is through acting that a person can exert their influence and authority. Nevertheless, Balzac likewise stresses the significance of the electoral concept, which is based on discussion and dispute. He recommends that without open and continuous conversations, political action becomes impossible. This could be analyzed as a warning versus authoritarian programs that reduce discussion and restrict the power of the people. Balzac's words act as a pointer that real political development can just be accomplished through a balance of power and discussion.