“Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.”
- August 15, 1769 – May 5, 1821
- French of Italian descent
- French military officer and emperor
- Reorganized Europe after the French Revolution and built the foundations of the legal system in modern Europe
Quote
“Great ambition is the passion of a great character. Those endowed with it may perform very good or very bad acts. All depends on the principles which direct them.”
Explanation
Napoleon Bonaparte’s statement highlights the dual nature of ambition and the importance of moral principles in guiding one’s actions. He suggests that ambition—the drive to achieve something extraordinary—is a defining trait of those with great character, and it can lead to either positive or negative outcomes. Whether ambition results in good or harm depends entirely on the values and ethics that guide it. Napoleon, a leader whose own ambitious pursuits changed the course of history, understood that the power of ambition can be both constructive and destructive, shaping the world according to the individual’s principles.
This idea is relevant in many aspects of life, especially in leadership. Ambition can inspire remarkable achievements and drive people to accomplish feats that benefit society, as seen in the work of visionary leaders, scientists, and artists. However, ambition without a moral compass can lead to self-serving or harmful actions, as demonstrated by those who pursue power at the expense of others. For example, historical figures with strong ambition but flawed principles have often caused conflict or suffering, whereas those with a guiding sense of responsibility have made lasting, positive contributions.
Napoleon’s insight encourages us to cultivate not only ambition but also a strong set of guiding principles. When ambition is directed by ethical values, it can lead to achievements that uplift and benefit others. This perspective underscores the importance of aligning one’s goals with integrity and purpose, reminding us that while ambition is a powerful force, its impact on the world depends on the character and intentions of the individual.
