Original artwork, not a still
Would I rather be feared or loved? Easy, both. I want people to be afraid of how much they love me.
— The Office (U.S.) · 2005
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Machiavelli's old question (is it better to be feared or loved?) answered by a boss who wants it all and has no idea how that sounds. Michael's "easy, both" is the joke and the truth about him: he craves affection and authority in equal measure, and cannot tell the difference. Fans quote it for any leader who wants respect and a hug, and it is a favourite on mugs and office posters.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for The Office (U.S.)Show the scene
In "The Fight", the sixth episode of season two of The Office (U.S.), Michael Scott boasts he could beat Dwight, who has just joined a karate dojo, and ends up fighting him there. At the dojo Michael wins with illegal blows and pins Dwight, then returns to the office feeling empowered until he realises he has hurt his friend. The line comes in a to-camera interview about consoling Dwight: Michael says there is honor in making a loser feel better, then asks whether he would rather be feared or loved. The episode first aired in November 2005.
Sources (2)
- The Office Wiki: The FightSummaryReference checked
- The Office Wiki: The Fight QuotesMichael Scott talking headReference checked
Context reviewed
