December 7, 2025

What the crowd requires is mediocrity of the highest order.

Auguste Préault (1809–1879), French writer, The Cynic’s Lexicon, Jonathon Green, ed. (London: 1986), p.169

Where do you fit in the order of mediocrity? Which of your colleagues impresses you, and why? How many do you deem less than impressive? Any genuine crazies?

Every politician learns sooner or later that no matter how intelligent she is, it is not a good idea to flaunt it. The stupidest ones will never lack for fans. A modicum of intelligence is best.