Skip to content

To be given dominion over another is a hard thing; to…

“To be given dominion over another is a hard thing; to wrest dominion over another is a wrong thing; to give dominion of yourself to another is a wicked thing.” quote by Toni Morrison
Download Open image
“To be given dominion over another is a hard thing; to wrest dominion over another is a wrong thing; to give dominion of yourself to another is a wicked thing.”

Toni Morrison

About This Quote

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

Dominion over others is inherently problematic; imposing control is wrong, and surrendering oneself to another is harmful.

In simple terms: Control over people is wrong and surrendering to control is harmful.

Key Takeaway

Respect autonomy and avoid domination.

Themes

power ethics human dignity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • leadership
  • political systems
  • personal boundaries

Key Concepts

authority moral philosophy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when influence becomes domination?
  • What safeguards protect personal autonomy?
A Different Perspective

Power dynamics are complex and sometimes necessary for order.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Toni Morrison

Explore all 774 Toni Morrison quotes

More Dominion quotes

Browse all 382 Dominion quotes