More realism: Martin Luther on the powers that be

Above: a bust of Martin Luther from the Wrocław City Museum in Poland (picture: Ian Clary)

Here is more realism about politicians and governing authorities, this time from Martin Luther (1483-1546):

You must know that from the beginning of the world a wise prince is a rare bird indeed; still more so a pious prince. They are usually the greatest fools or the worst knaves on earth; therefore one must constantly expect the worst from them and look for little good from them, especially in divine matters which concern the salvation of souls.1

As per usual, Luther nails it!

“The greatest fools or the worst knaves”: the current day has plenty of examples of both—take your pick!

HT: Mark J. Larson.