Putin, Kids and Animals: Trusting our Perceptions

If we are not ourselves corrupt beyond redemption, we can plainly tell the caliber of a man by his relations with others; particularly with children, with his chosen friends, and with animals. A superior man loves, respects, and finds delight in all of these according to their natures, and without taking the least thought for his own dignity.  With children and animals he is notably attentive and respectful, even when he finds them irresistibly funny--even while hugging them or blowing on their tummies. With his friends he is happy to act like a boy himself. With women he is charming and a little shy.  And when women behave indecorously, he reacts with astonished hilarity.