Frank Herbert Quotes

Diplomacy, is persuasion in the shadow of power.

To persuade is more trouble than to dominate, and the powerful seldom take this trouble if they can avoid it.

I've been dealing with politicians all my life. All my life. And I've always gotten them to do what I need them to do.

A ruler must learn to be other than good.

In peace, as there is more time to spare, the leaders are expected to persuade the rank and file, instead of commanding them.

Politics and war are remarkably similar situations.

The most important thing about power is to make sure you don't have to use it.

Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.

The key to successful leadership today is influence, not authority.

Thaw with her gentle persuasion is more powerful than Thor with his hammer. The one melts, the other breaks into pieces.

I believe we should appeal to people at the higher levels.

I consider myself a persuasive person. With the ability to persuade comes a certain level of power.

I think it was when I realised I could talk anybody into doing just about anything I wanted them to.

When you can't make them see the light, make them feel the heat.

He who demands does not command.

You do not need to be in a position of power. You need only be in a position to influence those in power.

Unless you’re prepared to use force, it’s very difficult to deal with a person who understands only force.

It is one thing to persuade, another to command …

Foreign policy does not mean guns and rifles, but utilizing all legitimate international means to convince others.

In the affairs of nations, too much hard power ends up breeding not submission but resistance. Likewise great soft power does not bend hearts; it twists minds in resentment and rage.

To rule without being felt…is the great mystery of policy.

If you've got 'em by the balls, their hearts and minds will follow.

Power comes through public persuasion.

People may oppose you, but when they realize you can hurt them, they'll join your side.

Soft power … cannot accomplish much in the absence of a willingness to use hard power.