• UnderpantsWeevil@lemmy.world
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    4 months ago

    It’s the age old problem of a wise despot.

    When you’re governing wisely, there is no need to be despotic. Conflicts and contradictions necessitate a large militant police state to keep the lower class in line. But when you’ve got generous surpluses and a rising quality of life, people are generally happy and easy to govern.

    • WildPalmTree@lemmy.world
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      4 months ago

      Despot means you have absolute power. It doesn’t mean you use it badly. It just means you have the potential to.

      • UnderpantsWeevil@lemmy.world
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        4 months ago

        Despot means you have absolute power.

        Traditionally in a cruel or oppressive manner.

        The wise leader doesn’t need to inflict cruelty, because they have the public’s trust.