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Cutting Quote by Emile M. Cioran

“Great persecutors are recruited among martyrs whose heads haven't been cut off.” quote by Emile M. Cioran
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“Great persecutors are recruited among martyrs whose heads haven't been cut off.”

Emile M. Cioran

About This Quote

Source Essay: The New Gods by Emile M. Cioran, 1954

Martyrs become oppressors when their cause is no longer pure, showing how power can corrupt even the most self‑sacrificing individuals.

In simple terms: Martyrs can turn into oppressors when power corrupts.

Key Takeaway

Beware the corrupting influence of power.

Themes

power corruption martyrdom

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political movements
  • religious institutions
  • social activism

Key Concepts

philosophy politics ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does sacrifice become oppression?
  • Can true martyrdom exist without power?
A Different Perspective

The statement may oversimplify complex motivations behind oppression.

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