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The fearful danger of the present time is that above the…

“The fearful danger of the present time is that above the cry for authority, we forget that man stands alone before the ultimate authority, and that anyone who lays violent hands on man here, is infringing eternal laws, and taking upon himself superhuman authority, which will eventually crush him.” quote by Dietrich Bonhoeffer
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“The fearful danger of the present time is that above the cry for authority, we forget that man stands alone before the ultimate authority, and that anyone who lays violent hands on man here, is infringing eternal laws, and taking upon himself superhuman authority, which will eventually crush him.”

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Warning that seeking authority can lead to tyranny, violating eternal moral law and inviting downfall.

In simple terms: Pursuing power can corrupt and break divine law.

Key Takeaway

Respect ultimate moral authority, avoid overreaching.

Themes

ethics authority morality

Mood

solemn reflective

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • legal systems
  • human rights

Key Concepts

theology political philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • What limits should constrain human authority?
  • How can societies guard against superhuman power?
A Different Perspective

May overlook practical necessity of organized authority.

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