Absolute power Quote by Chinua Achebe
““In the end I began to understand. There is such a thing as absolute power over narrative. Those who secure this privilege for themselves can arrange stories about others pretty much where, and as, they like. Just as in corrupt, totalitarian regimes, those who exercise power over others can do anything. They can bring out crowds of demonstrators whenever they need them.””
About This Quote
Control over narratives grants power to shape perception and mobilize masses.
In simple terms: Narrative control equals power.
Key Takeaway
Guard against manipulation.
Themes
media
power
storytelling
Mood
critical
aware
Type
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- political campaigns
- social movements
- advertising
Key Concepts
propaganda
authoritarianism
Questions to Reflect On
- Who controls the story you hear?
- How can you seek diverse perspectives?
A Different Perspective
Narratives can be challenged by alternative voices.
![“As Israel made the wants of his national existence the law of the world, as under the dominance of these wants he deified even his political vindictiveness; so the Christian made the requirements of human feeling the absolute powers and laws of the world. [T]hat is, indeed, only of man considered…” quote by Ludwig Feuerbach](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dd1/ludwig-feuerbach-3406_abrahamism_as-israel-made-the-wants-of-his-national_31284.jpg)
