Absolutes Quote by Andre Breton
“The mere word freedom is the only one that still excites me. I deem it capable of indefinitely sustaining the old human fanaticism. It doubtless satisfies my only legitimate aspiration. Among all the many misfortunes to which we are heir, it is only fair to admit that we are allowed the greatest degree of freedom of thought. It is up to us not to misuse it. To reduce the imagination to a state of slavery-even though it would mean the elimination of what is commonly called happiness-is to betray all sense of absolute justice within oneself.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Manifesto of Surrealism, 1924
Freedom of thought is the ultimate thrill, essential for sustaining human fanaticism; misusing it leads to intellectual slavery, betraying justice and happiness.
In simple terms: Thought freedom fuels creativity and moral integrity.
Key Takeaway
Guard thought freedom against oppression.
Themes
freedom
creativity
justice
humanism
responsibility
Mood
reflective
defiant
philosophical
Type
manifesto
philosophical
When to use this quote
- Political discourse
- artistic creation
- personal reflection
- social critique
Key Concepts
Surrealist philosophy
ethical autonomy
intellectual liberty
Questions to Reflect On
- What responsibilities accompany unlimited thought freedom?
- How can societies protect intellectual liberty?
A Different Perspective
Freedom can be co‑opted for manipulation or nihilism.
![“[Puggles] "What population signs on willingly for slavery?" "You mean other than wives?" [Glinda]” quote by Gregory Maguire](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/b55/gregory-maguire-547_mean_puggles-what-population-signs-on-willing_2975609.jpg)
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
