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The essence in obedience consists in the fact that a…

“The essence in obedience consists in the fact that a person comes to view himself as an instrument for carrying out another person's wishes and he therefore no longer regards himself as responsible for his actions.” quote by Stanley Milgram
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“The essence in obedience consists in the fact that a person comes to view himself as an instrument for carrying out another person's wishes and he therefore no longer regards himself as responsible for his actions.”

Stanley Milgram

About This Quote

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

Obedience leads people to see themselves as tools for others, abandoning personal responsibility for actions.

In simple terms: Obedience makes people feel not responsible.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal agency despite external pressure.

Themes

responsibility obedience agency

Mood

reflective critical

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • workplace decisions
  • military orders
  • peer pressure
  • family expectations

Key Concepts

social psychology ethical autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever feel you act as an instrument for someone else?
  • How can you reclaim responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Individuals may still be complicit even when deferring to authority.

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