Able Quote by Catharine MacKinnon
“Power is being able to say complete and utter nonsense and have it be believed, powerlessness is where no matter how much cogent evidence and proof one has, to not be believed.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Power and belief, 1990s
Power lets false statements be accepted; powerlessness leaves truth unheard despite evidence.
In simple terms: Power influences belief more than truth.
Key Takeaway
Seek evidence-based persuasion and protect against misinformation.
Themes
power
truth
belief
communication
authority
Mood
critical
skeptical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- politics
- media
- legal advocacy
- public discourse
- education
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social influence
information asymmetry
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you verify information in a power‑imbalanced context?
- What strategies protect truth from being dismissed?
A Different Perspective
Even with power, truth can be suppressed by dominant narratives.
