Meaning: Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution, made this statement about the importance of public opinion in governance. The quote reflects Napoleon's understanding of the significance of the people's sentiments in shaping the decisions and policies of a ruler, particularly in a monarchy.

In essence, Napoleon is likening public opinion to a thermometer, a tool used to measure temperature, and suggesting that it serves as a gauge for the general sentiment of the population. By referring to a monarch, he is emphasizing the relevance of this measure in the context of a monarchical rule, where the ruler's decisions hold significant sway over the lives of the people.

Napoleon's assertion underscores the idea that a wise monarch should be attuned to the prevailing public opinion, using it as a guide for decision-making. This implies that a ruler who is disconnected from the sentiments and concerns of the populace is at risk of making decisions that may alienate or antagonize the people, potentially leading to unrest or dissatisfaction.

Moreover, the analogy of a thermometer suggests that public opinion is not static but fluctuates, much like the temperature. It can be influenced by various factors such as social, economic, and political conditions, as well as the actions of the ruler and the government. Therefore, Napoleon's message encourages the monarch to continuously monitor and take into account the changing public sentiment in order to govern effectively and maintain stability.

From a historical perspective, Napoleon's emphasis on public opinion is notable as it reflects a departure from the traditional absolutist views of monarchy prevalent in earlier centuries. The concept of rulers seeking to understand and respond to public sentiment was a departure from the autocratic rule that had characterized many monarchies. This aligns with the evolving political landscape of the time, marked by the ideas of the Enlightenment and the growing influence of democratic principles.

Furthermore, Napoleon's own experience as a leader likely informed his perspective on the significance of public opinion. His rise to power was marked by widespread support from the French populace, and he recognized the importance of maintaining that support to solidify his rule. Additionally, his eventual downfall was influenced in part by the erosion of public confidence and support, underscoring the real-world implications of neglecting public opinion.

In modern governance, the quote remains relevant as it highlights the importance of leaders, whether in monarchies or democracies, to consider the views and concerns of the people. The increasing interconnectedness and communication afforded by technology have amplified the impact of public opinion, making it even more crucial for leaders to be responsive to the sentiments of the populace.

In conclusion, Napoleon Bonaparte's quote about public opinion as the thermometer a monarch should constantly consult encapsulates the idea that effective governance requires an understanding of and responsiveness to the sentiments of the people. It reflects a departure from traditional autocratic rule and emphasizes the evolving role of public opinion in shaping governance. The quote serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of considering public sentiment in leadership and decision-making.