Children Quote by David A. Nibert
““To make slaves more amenable to control, they were often separated at birth from their families. And, like domesticated animals, many were deliberately kept in a state of infantile dependence that inflicted a sort of psychic amputation on them—they remained like children, and their helplessness made them easier to control. Both animals and human slaves could be controlled best if kept economically and psychically dependent on their owners.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Evolution of Human Violence, 2013
Slavery is maintained by creating psychological dependence through family separation and infantilization, making victims easier to control.
In simple terms: Control via dependence and separation.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and resist tactics that create dependency.
Themes
slavery
psychology
control
dependence
Mood
somber
critical
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- human rights advocacy
- education
- policy reform
Key Concepts
psychic amputation
economic exploitation
social engineering
Questions to Reflect On
- How do modern systems replicate these dependence mechanisms?
- What can individuals do to foster autonomy?
A Different Perspective
Such tactics can be reinforced by cultural norms and economic structures.
![“The laws of custom make our [returning a visit] necessary. O how I hate this vile custom which obliges us to make slaves of ourselves! to sell the most precious property we boast, our time;--and to sacrifice it to every prattling impertinent who chooses to demand it!” quote by Fanny Burney](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d6b/fanny-burney-7403_boast_the-laws-of-custom-make-our-returning-a_580819.jpg)
