What does Gulliver discover about the nature of power in "Gulliver's Travels"?

In "Gulliver's Travels," the narrative reveals a deep skepticism regarding the nature of power and its often absurd manifestations. Throughout his journeys, Gulliver encounters various societies that highlight the ridiculousness of political systems and the folly of those in power. For instance, in Lilliput, the petty conflicts and trivial concerns of the rulers illustrate how power can devolve into absurdity rather than serving rational governance. Additionally, the portrayal of the Houyhnhnms and the Yahoos starkly contrasts reasoned leadership with bestial behavior, showcasing the potential for power to lead to moral degradation rather than enlightenment.

This focus on folly aligns with the broader satirical themes in Swift's work, suggesting that power misused can lead to nonsensical outcomes rather than virtuous or constructive governance. The exploration of power dynamics reveals that those in authority often act in self-interest or engage in ridiculous disputes, reflecting a critical perspective on how power behaves in society. Hence, the lesson drawn from Gulliver's experiences emphasizes the tendency of power to result in foolishness and absurdity.