The following of authority is the denial of intelligence…
![“The following of authority is the denial of intelligence. [It] may help us temporarily to cover up our difficulties and problems; but to avoid a problem is only to intensify it, and in the process, self-knowledge and freedom are abandoned.” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/885/anonymous-1_abandoned_the-following-of-authority-is-the-denial_247202.jpg)
“The following of authority is the denial of intelligence. [It] may help us temporarily to cover up our difficulties and problems; but to avoid a problem is only to intensify it, and in the process, self-knowledge and freedom are abandoned.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Authority can mask ignorance, but avoiding problems worsens them and suppresses self‑knowledge and freedom.
In simple terms: Authority hides ignorance; avoiding problems worsens them.
Key Takeaway
Confront issues directly to preserve freedom.
Themes
authority
intelligence
self‑knowledge
freedom
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace conflict
- personal decision making
- public policy
- education
- relationships
Key Concepts
psychology
political theory
personal growth
Questions to Reflect On
- What problems are you avoiding?
- How does confronting authority affect your freedom?
A Different Perspective
Avoiding problems may provide short‑term comfort but leads to greater long‑term damage.