Century Quote by E. L. Doctorow
“In the twentieth century one of the most personal relationships to have developed is that of the person and the state. It's become a fact of life that governments have become very intimate with people, most always to their detriment.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The State and the Individual, 1999, E. L. Doctorow
The author observes that modern governments have become deeply intertwined with personal lives, often harming citizens.
In simple terms: State intrusion into personal life is common and harmful.
Key Takeaway
Guard personal autonomy against overreach.
Themes
government
individual
privacy
power
society
Mood
skeptical
reflective
critical
Type
analysis
political commentary
When to use this quote
- digital surveillance
- healthcare decisions
- education policy
- employment law
Key Concepts
state control
personal liberty
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- What boundaries should limit state involvement?
- How can citizens retain agency?
A Different Perspective
The claim may overlook beneficial state services.
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