I'd rather have the influence than the power, and the influence to me is to build institutions of independence and democracy, to regain for Egypt prestige in education and science and technology.

In this quote, Ahmed Zewail expresses his preference for influence over power, emphasizing that true change and progress come from shaping institutions that foster independence and democracy. Zewail argues that the real strength lies in creating lasting systems that empower people and encourage growth in areas like education, science, and technology. Rather than holding political power, he believes in the value of influence to bring about meaningful societal advancement.

Zewail’s vision focuses on the importance of rebuilding Egypt's prestige on the global stage, particularly through education and scientific advancement. He suggests that by investing in these fields, Egypt can regain its former status as a leader in knowledge and innovation. This approach highlights his belief that a nation’s true strength comes from intellectual and technological progress, not simply from political or military dominance.

The origin of this quote comes from Ahmed Zewail, an Egyptian-American scientist and Nobel laureate in Chemistry. Zewail was passionate about the role of science in shaping the future of nations, especially those like Egypt, where he believed the potential for development was vast. Throughout his life, Zewail advocated for better educational systems and greater investment in research to lift countries out of poverty and into a future of prosperity.

In this context, Zewail’s words reflect his belief in the power of knowledge and institution-building over mere political control. His preference for influence rather than power suggests that sustainable change comes from long-term investment in the intellectual and technological development of a nation, ensuring that its future is shaped by democratic values and independent thinking.