Authority Quote by Derrick Jensen
““Someone asked me once at a talk why I so stress the positive with my students yet am such an unstinting critic of those who run our culture and who are killing the planet. I answered immediately, “Power. If I’ve got power or authority over someone, it’s my responsibility to use that only to help them. It’s my job to accept and praise them into becoming who they are.””
About This Quote
The speaker argues that having authority obligates one to uplift others, not merely critique the broader system.
In simple terms: Authority carries a duty to empower.
Key Takeaway
Power should be used for positive growth.
Themes
responsibility
leadership
empowerment
critique
environmentalism
education
Mood
inspirational
reflective
determined
Type
philosophical
motivational
educational
When to use this quote
- teaching students
- leading a team
- coaching athletes
- mentoring interns
- guiding community groups
Key Concepts
authority
ethical duty
personal development
systemic critique
Practical Applications
- leadership training
- educational workshops
Questions to Reflect On
- How does authority shape your interactions?
- What limits should be placed on power?
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)