Bertrand RussellQuotes, e0050

 

Most political leaders acquire their position by causing large numbers of people to believe that these leaders are actuated by altruistic desires. It is well understood that such a belief is more readily accepted under the influence of excitement. Brass bands, mob oratory, lynching, and war, are stages in the development of the excitement. I suppose the advocates of unreason think that there is a better chance of profitably deceiving the populace if they keep it in a state of effervescence.
 Source:Human Society in Ethics and Politics, 1954, Preface
 More info.:http://russell-j.com/cool/47T-PREF-02.HTM#r366-c243