The Seductive And Addictive Hold Of Power

By Sumit Paul, New Age Islam 4 March 2025 Recently, India's premier Bangla broadsheet Anand Bazar Patrika from Calcutta quoted Edmund Burke's statement in its editorial. It was in the context of inordinate (political) power and the addictive nature of it. I'm translating that statement into English: "Those who have been once intoxicated with power, and have derived any kind of emolument from it, even for one year, can never willingly abandon it." Edmund Burke's quote sheds light on the inherent allure and addictive nature of power. Burke implies that once individuals have experienced the intoxicating effects of authority and have reaped the benefits it offers, they become unwilling to let it go willingly. Whether it is the sense of control, status, or material rewards derived from wielding power, these individuals become deeply entrenched in its grip, making it difficult for them to relinquish their positions. The quote implies that the allure of power instils a desire to retain it indefinitely, ensuring its seductive hold persists over those who have tasted its intoxicating effects. Lord Acton aptly said that, "Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." Power-hungry politicians, whether Modi, Trump or Gandhi family, will never leave the corridors of power politics because they know that once they relinquish it, people will not just forget them, they'll be treated quite indifferently, even shabbily. So, to defend themselves, they need to have political power at their disposal till they kick the bucket. Actor Rajesh Khanna once said that the power of politics and the glamour world could make any person swollen-headed. Who knew this better than him as he saw all the power and its rapid decline (and ultimately, disappearance) as a superstar and politician? Why does this happen? Because, the greater the power, the more dangerous the abuse. As power increases, so does the potential for those in positions of authority to abuse it. This is not just seductive but addictive as well. Proclivity to abuse power is ingrained in all of us. History is replete with examples of the perils that arise when individuals or institutions wield unchecked power. Those entrusted with great power must be vigilant in exercising it responsibly and tempering it with compassion, justice, and empathy. It highlights the need for robust checks and balances in governance systems to prevent the exploitation of power and protect the rights and freedoms of the people. Ultimately, these words instigate a crucial discourse on the need for accountability and vigilance in society to prevent the dangerous abuse of power. Will our politicians ever think of abnegating their perks, pelf and power for the welfare of the laity? The answer will never be in the affirmative. ----- A regular columnist for New Age Islam, Sumit Paul is a researcher in comparative religions, with special reference to Islam. He has contributed articles to the world's premier publications in several languages including Persian. URL: https://www.newageislam.com/spiritual-meditations/seductive-addictive-power/d/134779 New Age Islam, Islam Online, Islamic Website, African Muslim News, Arab World News, South Asia News, Indian Muslim News, World Muslim News, Women in Islam, Islamic Feminism, Arab Women, Women In Arab, Islamophobia in America, Muslim Women in West, Islam Women and Feminism