What's Happening?
Journalist John Corry is now credited with originating the adage, 'Power is one hell of an aphrodisiac,' in July 1970. This finding by Quote Investigator (QI) clarifies the historical attribution of the popular saying, which has often been mistakenly
linked to figures like Henry Kissinger or Napoleon Bonaparte. Prior to Corry's 1970 article titled 'Washington, Sex, and Power' in 'Harper’s Magazine,' similar phrases existed, such as 'Fame is a potent aphrodisiac' used by Graham Greene in 1960 and John Gunther in 1966, and 'Class is a potent aphrodisiac' by William Styron in 1969. However, Corry's piece marked the first documented instance where 'power' was specifically identified as an aphrodisiac. His observation was subsequently paraphrased and popularized by syndicated columnist Art Buchwald on July 16, 1970, further embedding the concept into public discourse.
Why It's Important?
This re-attribution is significant for historical accuracy in journalism and the study of popular culture. Correctly identifying the origin of such a widely quoted phrase helps to prevent the spread of misinformation and provides a clearer understanding of its initial context. The phrase's association with Washington D.C. in Corry's original article highlights a perception of power dynamics within the U.S. political landscape during that era. For historians and linguists, this research underscores the complex evolution of language and the often-misremembered origins of common expressions. It also demonstrates how media figures, like Corry and Buchwald, can influence public perception and contribute to the lexicon of political and social commentary, shaping how society views the allure and impact of power.
What's Next?
Future research may delve deeper into the societal and political climate of 1970s Washington D.C. to further contextualize Corry's observation. Scholars might explore how the phrase evolved in usage and attribution over time, particularly how it became widely associated with Henry Kissinger shortly after its initial publication. This clarification could also prompt a review of other commonly misattributed quotes, encouraging more rigorous historical and journalistic investigation into the origins of popular sayings. The ongoing work by organizations like Quote Investigator will continue to refine our understanding of linguistic history and the impact of media on public discourse.
Beyond the Headlines
The enduring popularity of the phrase 'power is an aphrodisiac' speaks to a deeper societal fascination with the psychological effects of power. It suggests a recognition that influence and authority can be inherently attractive, transcending conventional notions of charm or physical appeal. This concept has permeated various aspects of U.S. culture, from political narratives to entertainment, often used to explain the appeal of powerful individuals. The ethical implications of this perception are also noteworthy, as it can sometimes romanticize or excuse behaviors associated with power imbalances. Understanding the phrase's true origin helps to ground its meaning in a specific historical and journalistic observation, rather than an abstract philosophical statement, offering a more nuanced perspective on the interplay between power, attraction, and human behavior.
