“Let us be terrible, so that the people may not be.”
What this quote means
This quote, from the French Revolution, expresses a logic of political terror: to prevent the people from revolting, power must be ruthless. It reflects an era where fear was used as a tool of control. Today, it makes us question the use of force and the legitimacy of repression, reminding us of the dangers of authoritarian power that justifies oppression in the name of stability.
How to apply it daily
In a conflict situation, refuse to use fear or intimidation to impose your view. Instead, seek to understand and dialogue, even if it seems harder.
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