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Well, the first thing is that truth and power for me form…

“Well, the first thing is that truth and power for me form an antithesis, an antagonism, which will hardly ever be resolved. I can define in fact, can simplify the history of human society, the evolution of human society, as a contest between power and freedom.” quote by Wole Soyinka
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“Well, the first thing is that truth and power for me form an antithesis, an antagonism, which will hardly ever be resolved. I can define in fact, can simplify the history of human society, the evolution of human society, as a contest between power and freedom.”

Wole Soyinka

About This Quote

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

Power and truth are fundamentally opposed, creating an ongoing struggle between domination and liberty.

In simple terms: Power conflicts with truth.

Key Takeaway

Question authority.

Themes

politics truth freedom

Mood

critical provocative

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • public discourse
  • policy making

Key Concepts

antithesis conflict societal evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can truth survive under oppressive power?
  • What role does freedom play in societal progress?
A Different Perspective

Resolution may be elusive.

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