Francis I Quotes

The people are difficult to govern: It is because those in authority are too fond of action [change].

Most men, after a little freedom, have preferred authority with the consoling assurances and the economy of effort it brings.

It is much safer to obey than to rule.

The strongest bulwark of authority is uniformity; the least divergence from it is the greatest crime.

When you make your peace with authority you become authority.

France has chosen to ignore the great transformation of the 21st century and cultivate a [culture of] status quo and rigidity.

The status quo is a powerful force.

The adherents of the old order have a powerful ally in the natural law of inertia inherent in humanity which is … a natural defense against change.

Nobody wants to change.

Those who can, must obey.

I'm a purist.

I think I'm a natural-born leader. I know how to bow down to authority if it's authority that I respect.

I don't mind how much my Ministers talk, so long as they do what I say.

Nothing strengthens authority so much as silence.

The man whose authority is recent is always stern.

The time will come, without my seeking it, that my words will almost serve as law. If I ask a certain thing, it will be done. If I don't want something, it will not be done.

Conservatism clings to what has been established, fearing that, once we begin to question the beliefs that we have inherited, all the values of life will be destroyed.

All monarchies have a common characteristic...and that is stubbornness.

Piety and virtue lie in obedience and conformity, while nothing is more repugnant than change and innovation.

Consistency frequently launches its devotees into obstinacy.

There are people and interests that do not want change. It is not in their interest for this system to change.

The people may be made to follow a path of action, but they may not be made to understand it.

Those who govern us know it well, for they would sooner deny us bread than dare alter the observance of tradition.

Nobody obeys my instructions.

The French higher education system has not adapted to this revolutionary period. [It] rewards people for their capacity to follow the path that is open to them. It does not encourage people to rebel or to develop their character.