Christopher Hitchens Quotes

I have this theory that alpha males are actually not alpha males. They're actually very scared - particularly scared of competition from a lot of men.

There is none made so great, but he may both need the help and service, and stand in fear of the power and unkindness, even of the meanest of mortals.

You can't have a conversation with someone who's intimidated by you all the time.

I really do not see much use in exalting the humble and meek; they do not remain humble and meek long when they are exalted.

It is the coward who fawns upon those above him. It is the coward who is insolent whenever he dares be so.

Oppression does not make for hearts as big as all outdoors. Oppression makes us big and small. Expressive and silenced. Deep and dead.

Those who are believed to be most abject and humble are usually most ambitious and envious.

The basis of tragedy is man's helplessness against disease, war and death; the basis of comedy is man's helplessness against vanity (the vanity of love, greed, lust, power).

The bulk of mankind have indeed, in all countries in their turn, been made the prey of ambition.

We humans find it difficult to resist infection by hubris..

Let us first render ourselves popular by mighty deeds, and afterwards we will speak of peace and clemency. In the disputes of others let us always put ourselves on the side of the stronger. If we would become rich in men and cattle, we cannot help making enemies; but they will not roar for ever.

All war presupposes human weakness and seeks to exploit it.

Their authority over their slaves renders them vain and imperious.

Men and nations cannot bear to feel inferior.

The desire for fame tempts even noble minds.

He that plots to be the only figure among ciphers, is the decay of the whole age.

The lust for power is not rooted in strength but in weakness.

Men love power.

Force is never more operative than when it is known to exist but is not brandished.

The cause of mutual fear consists partly in the natural equality of men

Those who love to be feared fear to be loved, and they themselves are more afraid than anyone, for whereas other men fear only them, they fear everyone.

It is a curiosity of human nature that lack of self-assurance seems to breed an exaggerated sense of power and mission.

There is something about prosperity that brings out the worst in some people.

Powerful people are always in charge. You have to acknowledge that and deal with it as a reality. They're not devils. They're not monsters. They're human beings, like us, that have their share of insecurities and fears. You have to contemplate that as you go through life.

We're just kind of dark as humans, generally.