This quote is a cautionary piece of advice about the unpredictability and fickleness of the masses, or the public. The “multitude,” as Napoleon calls it, is often swayed by emotions, trends, and immediate circumstances, leading to inconsistent and impulsive behavior. Depending on such a volatile entity can be risky as their support or favor can change quickly and without warning.
The phrase “full of instability and whims” refers to the fact that public opinion can be inconsistent and changeable, often influenced by fleeting trends or emotions rather than careful thought or steadfast principles. This makes the multitude an unreliable ally or source of support.
The advice to “always take precautions against it” suggests that one should always be prepared for the possibility of sudden changes in public opinion or behavior. This could mean not putting all your trust or reliance on the support of the multitude, or it could mean always having a backup plan in case the multitude turns against you.
In today’s world, this quote is highly relevant in various fields such as politics, business, and even personal development. In politics, for example, politicians who base their policies solely on popular opinion may find themselves in trouble when the public mood changes. In business, companies that rely too heavily on fleeting consumer trends can suffer when those trends inevitably shift.
In terms of personal development, this quote can be interpreted as a warning against seeking validation or approval from others. People’s opinions and feelings can change, often for reasons that have nothing to do with you. Therefore, depending on others for your self-worth can lead to a lot of instability and insecurity. Instead, one should focus on building self-reliance and personal values that are not dependent on the whims of others.
