# When Institutions of Power Err By:: [[Ross Jackson]] 2024-07-02 In _Litany for Dictatorships_, Stephen Vincent Benet (1935) explained, “We thought, because we had power, we had wisdom.” Sadly, institutions of power sometimes err. When egregiously wrong, their error can galvanize resistance that leads to redress. Arrogance, partisanship, cynicism, greed, and immunity from the consequences of one’s decisions contribute to confusing power with wisdom. Our institutions are failing. They represent us inadequately and increasingly represent only our worst attributes. Reform is needed. If our institutions have retained sufficient wisdom, they will select reform they can influence over unmanageable and unpredictable revolution. #### Related Items [[Power]] [[Revolution]] [[Wisdom]] [[Representation]] [[Err]]