In the ancient world individuals have sold themselves as…
“In the ancient world individuals have sold themselves as slaves, in order to eat. So in society. Here is a witch-doctor who can save us from the sorcerers - a war-lord who can save us from the barbarians - a Church that can save us from Hell. Give them what they ask, give ourselves to them bound and blindfold, if only they will! Perhaps the terrible bargain will be made again. We cannot blame men for making it. We can hardly wish them not to. Yet we can hardly bear that they should.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society trades freedom for security, turning to powerful leaders or institutions as saviors, repeating a dangerous bargain.
In simple terms: People give up liberty for protection, creating a cycle of dependence.
Key Takeaway
Question the cost of surrendering freedom for safety.
Themes
freedom
authority
trust
dependency
Mood
cautious
critical
Type
political
ethical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- religious institutions
- personal autonomy
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
political theory
social contract
psychology of fear
Questions to Reflect On
- What freedoms are we willing to sacrifice?
- How can we balance security with liberty?
A Different Perspective
Blind faith can lead to oppression and loss of agency.