Then every thing includes itself in power,
Power into will, will into appetite;
And appetite, an universal wolf,
So doubly seconded with will and power,
Must make perforce an universal prey,
And last eat up himself.” (Troilus and Cressida act 1, sc. 3)
Tips for Use. Optimal words to concisely describe the structure of power. Especially when the structure is stripped of the usual sanctimonious and hypocritical expression of love for democracy or similar. In the book “Your Daily Shakespeare” there are several entries on power and politics cross-referenced to each other so that you can select the most appropriate for your point, argument or presentation.
In the play. Ulysses upbraids the Greeks for their weakness and lack of unified authority.