THE NEED FOR DICTATORSHIP
QUOTATIONS FROM HISTORY
At critical times in history, there has been a need for dictatorship.
Even the Roman Republic elected a dictator during war.
THE NEED TO GIVE ONE LEADER
THE ABSOLUTE AUTHORITY TO MAKE DECISIONS
Homer (The Iliad) The rule of many kings is the road to disaster. There must be one king with absolute authority.
Napoleon Nothing is so important in war as an undivided command. There should be only one army conducted by one chief.
THE DISASTROUS CONSEQUENCES OF RULE BY COMMITTEE
Napoleon The same consequences which have uniformly attended long discussions and councils of war will follow at all times.
They will terminate in the adoption of the worst course, which in war is always the most timid, or, if you will, the most prudent.
The only true wisdom in a general is determined courage.
COMMENTS ON THE NEED FOR TERROR
Frederick the Great. Soldiers should fear their officers more than the enemy.
Napoleon At home as abroad, I reign only through the fear I inspire.
Robespierre. Justice without terror is useless.
Stalin. It is more dangerous for a soldier to desert the Red Army than to serve in it.
Machiavelli It is more important for a leader to be feared than loved.