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Quote by Douglas Adams

“The major problem - one of the major problems, for there are several - on of the many major problems with governing people is that of whom you get to do it; or rather of who manages to get people to let them do it to them. To summarize: it is a well-known fact that those people who must want to rule people are, ipso facto, those least suited to do it. To summarize the summary; anyone who is capable of getting themselves made President should on no account be allowed to do the job. To summarize the summary of the summary: people are a problem. And so this is the situation we find: a succession of Galactic Presidents who so much enjoy the fun and palaver of being in power that they very rarely notice that they're not. And somewhere in the shadows behind them - who? Who can possibly rule if no one who wants to do it can be allowed to?”

Quote by Douglas Adams

Work

The Ultimate Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

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Author

Douglas Adams
Douglas Adams

Douglas Adams was a British writer best known for his science fiction series 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. His work is celebrated for its unique humor and profound philosophical insights, making it a favorite among readers. Adams' novels often contain satirical commentary on modern society and deep reflections on the human condition. more

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“Madoc makes a snorting sound, then turns to me. 'I am sure that Wren here wouldn't mind taking Lady Nore's castle and lands for herself.' I shake my head at the absurdity of the statement. He raises his brows. 'No? Still sitting at the table and waiting for permission to start eating?' That's an uncomfortably accurate way of describing how I've lived my life.”

“As a queen, you'll have to choose what our city stands for. What's worth fighting for and what isn't, not based on what's right or wrong, but based on what allows your people to live unconcerned lives. And despite the fact that every intention you have is pure, they'll hate you. They can't help it. There is no decision you will make, ever, that everyone will support. You either don't do enough, or you do it the wrong way, or you're too soft, or you're too vicious. ... People need something to be upset about for their happiness to be real, " he explained, voice emotionless. "We only notice the day because there is night. We only truly quenched by water after thirst sets in. They need the negative, even if they manufacture it. It's the only way they understand the value of the positive. As their queen you're an easy target. They'll look for any crack, any blemish and scream about it. But the fact that they're screaming about you and not parishing in wars or starving in the mines will show you you've done your job well. And when you die, they'll visit your statue in the Heroes Hall and wail over what a wonderful leader you were, though you won't be around to hear it.”

“Traveller said, 'I expect the Tiste Edur discovered rather quickly the curse of occupation. It acts like a newly opened wound, infecting and poisoning both the oppressors and the oppressed. Both cultures become malformed, bitter with extremes. Hatred, fear, greed, betrayal, paranoia , and appalling indifference to suffering.' 'Yet the Malazans occupied Seven Cities' 'No, Samar Dev. The Malazans conquered Seven Cities. That is different. Kellanved understood that much. If one must grip hard in enemy territory, then that grip must be hidden, at the very cusp of local power. And so no more than a handful is being strictly controlled, everyone else, merchants and herders and farmers and tradefolk, everyone, is to be shown better circumstances, as quickly as possible. "Conquer as a rogue wave, rule in quiet ripples." The Emperor's own words.”