mkjones asked...
Asked by mkjones - 21/09/09 at 03:09 pmDoes everyone agree with the statement that absolute power corrupts and if so why do you think this is the case?
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September 21st, 2009 at 4:23 pm
Perhaps those that seek absolute power are inherently corrupt, and merely wish to achieve a position from which they can take advantage whilst remaining untouchable.
September 21st, 2009 at 4:47 pm
Absolute power and corruption always seem to coexist.
It is probably true to say that human nature largely leads us to take advantage of the environment in which we reside, and that the more power we have the more opportunities for corruption present themselves.
As power increases, the consequences of corruption also seem to diminish making it increasingly appealing.
In most cases leaders come to power with good intentions, some as champions of the people, but over the years become corrupt and isolated from the real world, those in power often wind up in a bubble out of touch with their people, but influenced by business and perhaps the one sided opinions of those around them.
Any body that resides in a position of power for a long period of time runs the risk of stagnating, when this occurs it often leads to corruption and dictatorship type tendencies. Even in a democracy corruption tends to show, particularly if a party remains in power for a long period, but at least with a democracy it is likely that the people will not stand for it if the corruption goes beyond a certain point.
September 21st, 2009 at 6:43 pm
I would say there is a strong correlation between the two, but not a black and white law. If there was then any belief in a god (who is all powerful) would have to be corrupt, and that just would not work for any religion.
September 21st, 2009 at 11:46 pm
@matate99 – That said religion is big business, just as big business is a religion, I probably wouldn’t be so quick to assume that all religion is devoid of corruption.
September 26th, 2009 at 9:40 am
Absolute power implies the absolute powerless, and corruption implies second thoughts by those who gave away their power.