Authority Quote by Epictetus
““We are at the mercy of whoever wields authority over the things we either desire or detest. If you would be free, then, do not wish to have, or avoid, things that other people control, because then you must serve as their slave.””
About This Quote
Freedom comes from not attaching desire or aversion to external objects controlled by others, because such attachments make us dependent on their will.
In simple terms: Detach from external desires to stay free.
Key Takeaway
Desire creates bondage.
Themes
autonomy
desire
control
freedom
attachment
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
philosophical
advice
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- political oppression
- consumerism
- relationship dynamics
Key Concepts
internal vs external control
psychological freedom
Practical Applications
- mindfulness practice
- political activism
Questions to Reflect On
- What desires do you hold that are shaped by others?
- How might letting go of those desires change your sense of agency?
A Different Perspective
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![“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)