Full Idea
In monarchies and despotic states, no one aspires to equality. Not even the idea occurs; everyone aspires to superiority. People of the very lowest rank only wish to rise in order to become masters of others.
Gist of Idea
No one even thinks of equality in monarchies and despotism; they all want superiority
Source
Baron de Montesquieu (The Spirit of the Laws (rev. 1757) [1748], 05.04)
Book Reference
Montesquieu,Baron de: 'Selected Political Writings', ed/tr. Richter,Melvin [Hackett 1990], p.141