I am getting into a situation in which I would have power both legal and extra legal over others. My morality is coming in the way. I think power always corrupts. Can power ever have a legitimate place in the life of a spiritual man? What precautions should be taken while exercising it.
2006-06-12 23:11:25 · 7 answers · asked by HarshaW 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Power does not always corrupt! Power is all about responsibility and progress. Power corrupts because most people aim for power without preparing for the position. People don't care to prepare themselves for the position rather they agitate and do everything possible to get there only to find out that they are at least a step behind in everything. When one is in charge his/her everything is put on the line including morality. Nobody is given responsibility beyond his power but its another thing to identify and appreciate the power. In secular or spiritual, power should not corrupt but the level to which one prepares for the position and the resources available will make a lot of difference. The only precaution to take is consistency, transparency and fairness.
2006-06-12 23:22:14 · answer #1 · answered by Sage_Learner 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
It's interesting that your question asks "is power always corrupt"... you amend this further on with "I think power always corrupts", but it's important to realize that these are two very different things. Power is not always corrupt, no. In fact, power cannot be corrupt. Power is an ability to act, a measure of available control... in and of itself, it's nothing, just as anger that is not acted on hurts no one.
Power can corrupt people, or rather, people susceptible to corruption may fall victim to it when power is placed in their hands. Power doesn't necessarily corrupt, however, and there are many real world spiritual examples... such as Gandhi, or Mother Theresa, where you have people in positions of power who could exert their influence in any number of ways, and were not corruptible.
As far as precautions go, you need only be the "spiritual man" you already claim to be. If you continue down a spiritual path in earnest, you'll make spiritual decisions, power or no power. Do not attempt to exert control, nor think of yourself as powerful.
Your true power rests in your ability to express love. If you keep this in mind, and act in accordance, you will not become corrupt.
2006-06-12 23:21:49 · answer #2 · answered by JStrat 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
You have a very valid point. Sometimes power can corrupt one in very insidious ways. I think by asking yourself this question that you would be less apt to be corrupt. Most people become corrupt without them seeing the changes in themselves. This is a very reflective question and one of the better ones I've read.
2006-06-12 23:21:20 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
A person who is spiritual (Not necessarily religious) will never misuse the power he has.
2006-06-12 23:29:55 · answer #4 · answered by sajid_icfai 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Quite often yes, But sometimes not.
I Corinthians 13;8a, Love never fails!!!
2006-06-12 23:30:56 · answer #5 · answered by ? 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It depends on the person. But usually it does!
2006-06-12 23:19:16 · answer #6 · answered by PINKO P 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it is the truth.
2006-06-12 23:15:14 · answer #7 · answered by jags 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋