What it lies in our power to do, it lies in our power not to do.
What's the meaning of this quote?
Quote Meaning: This quote emphasizes the notion of personal agency and choice. It suggests that we have the ability to control our actions and decisions, and as such, we also possess the power to refrain from certain actions. It highlights the importance of exercising self-control and making deliberate choices about our behavior.
At times, we may find ourselves facing decisions where we have the capability to engage in a particular action. However, this quote reminds us that just because we can do something, it doesn't necessarily mean that we should. It invites us to consider the consequences, ethics, and long-term impact of our actions before proceeding.
The quote acknowledges that we have the power to act, but it also emphasizes the power of restraint. It recognizes that refraining from certain actions can be just as significant and impactful as taking action. It highlights the value of self-discipline, thoughtful decision-making, and the ability to resist impulses or temptations that may not align with our values or bring about positive outcomes.
Ultimately, this quote encourages us to reflect on the choices we have and exercise our agency responsibly. It reminds us that true power lies not only in what we choose to do but also in what we choose not to do, shaping our character and influencing the world around us.
Who said the quote?
The quote "What it lies in our power to do, it lies in our power not to do." was said by Aristotle (Bio / Quotes). Aristotle was a Greek philosopher and scientist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest thinkers in history.
Is there a historical example that illustrates the message of the quote?
The quote "What it lies in our power to do, it lies in our power not to do," attributed to Aristotle, speaks to the fundamental human capacity for choice and responsibility. A poignant historical example that illustrates this message is the decision made by Emperor Ashoka of the Maurya Dynasty after the Kalinga War around 261 BCE.
Ashoka, who ruled over much of the Indian subcontinent, initially pursued aggressive military expansion. His conquest of Kalinga, a prosperous region in eastern India, was marked by extreme violence. Historical records, particularly the edicts of Ashoka, describe the horrors of the war: hundreds of thousands of people were killed, and many more were displaced.
Despite his power to continue on this path of conquest, Ashoka experienced a profound transformation. The devastation he witnessed, and the sorrow it brought to the people, caused him deep remorse. Realizing that he had the power not only to wage war but also to choose peace, Ashoka made a radical decision. He renounced violence and adopted a policy of Dhamma, or righteous living, which emphasized compassion, tolerance, and nonviolence. Instead of further conquests, he focused on spreading Buddhism, promoting welfare, and building a just society.
This shift in Ashoka’s policy is a clear illustration of the quote. Ashoka had the power to continue his conquests, but he chose not to. Instead, he redirected his energy towards creating a more peaceful and ethical empire. His decision not to act on his power in the same destructive way marked a turning point in history, influencing the spread of Buddhism and the governance of his empire.
How can the quote be applied in a real-life scenario?
In everyday life, the quote "What it lies in our power to do, it lies in our power not to do" can serve as a powerful reminder of personal responsibility and the importance of choice.
Imagine a situation at work where you are in a position of authority, perhaps as a manager. You have the power to implement policies that could either benefit or disadvantage your team. For instance, you might be considering cutting costs by reducing employee benefits. While this could increase short-term profits, it would likely lead to dissatisfaction among your team, decreased morale, and lower productivity in the long run.
The quote encourages you to pause and reflect on the power you wield. You have the ability to make this decision, but you also have the ability to choose not to. By choosing not to reduce benefits, and instead finding alternative ways to cut costs or improve efficiency, you can foster a more positive and supportive work environment. This decision could lead to greater loyalty, creativity, and overall success for your team.
On a personal level, the quote can apply to everyday decisions, like how you choose to respond in relationships. For instance, in an argument with a loved one, you may have the power to say something hurtful that you know will win the argument. However, the quote reminds you that just because you have the power to do something, it doesn’t mean you should. Choosing to hold back and respond with kindness or understanding instead can strengthen the relationship and lead to a more constructive resolution.
In both examples, the key takeaway is that power comes with the responsibility to choose wisely. Every action, or inaction, has consequences. The quote encourages thoughtful decision-making, reminding us that sometimes the greatest strength lies in choosing not to exercise our power in ways that could be harmful.
Chief Editor
Tal Gur is an author, founder, and impact-driven entrepreneur at heart. After trading his daily grind for a life of his own daring design, he spent a decade pursuing 100 major life goals around the globe. His journey and most recent book, The Art of Fully Living, has led him to found Elevate Society.
