Richard N. Haass Quotes

A demagogue is a person with whom we disagree as to which gang should mismanage the country.

With a flag you can lead people wherever you want.

Nationalism is the most powerful force on earth today.

People aren't really afraid of my views. They are just afraid of the word 'nationalism.'

The heights of popularity and patriotism are still the beaten road to power and tyranny.

Men in authority will always think that criticism of their policies is dangerous. They will always equate their policies with patriotism, and find criticism subversive.

After 9/11, I knew I wanted to write about power and identity and the way Americans on all sides of the political spectrum often mythologize our leaders, which are themes that the superhero genre has always handled really well.

I have only to raise a finger and the whole face of Europe is changed.

I am sure I can save this country and no one else can.

Politics is power, and communications is power,

Let's be clear: a nationalist is not a patriot.

I'm a nationalist and populist.

We have a secret weapon...it is called Nationalism

If you can ask a young man to give his life for his country, you can lead people.

Power is not something that can be assumed or discarded at will like underwear.

Our politics is about people not flags.

Well, I have an interest in power. I have an interest in people who find themselves in the position to exercise absolute power.

Politics is the art of controlling your environment.

The essence of government is control, or the attempt to control.

When mankind first saw the necessity of government, it is probable that many had conceived the desire of ruling.

In every society in human history, including the United States, those in power seek to imbue themselves with the attributes of religion and patriotism as a way of getting greater support for their policy and insulating themselves from any criticism.

Great is the hand that holds dominion over man by a scribbled name.

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.

Our public figures are often narcissists, utterly self-absorbed in their quest for power.

Machiavelli taught me it was better to be feared than loved. Because if you are loved they sense you might be weak. I am a man of the people and help them but it is important to do so through strength.