" Throughout history, megalomaniacs and tyrants have used such epithets—“father of the nation,” “dear leader”—but the terms usually have a hollow ring. Modern experience suggests that the titles are more about brainwashing and subjugation than the expression of popular acclaim. And yet, when it comes to ancient Egypt, scholars still balk at such an interpretation. "

― Toby Wilkinson , The Rise and Fall of Ancient Egypt: The History of a Civilisation from 3000 BC to Cleopatra