Absolutes Quote by Gore Vidal
“Although the notion of one god may give comfort to those in need of a daddy, it reminds the rest of us that the totalitarian society is grounded upon the concept of God the father. One paternal god, one paternal leader. Authority is absolute.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Last Man, Gore Vidal, 2002
The quote suggests that invoking a singular paternal deity can be used to legitimize authoritarian rule, equating divine authority with political power.
In simple terms: God as father justifies total control.
Key Takeaway
Question the link between religion and power.
Themes
authority
politics
religion
totalitarianism
Mood
critical
skeptical
analytical
Type
political
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- government propaganda
- cult of personality
- religious rhetoric
- social control
Key Concepts
theocracy
legitimacy
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does religious language shape political obedience?
- Can societies resist paternalistic authority without faith?
A Different Perspective
It may overlook secular sources of authority and individual agency.
![“Their [the U.S.’s] defense budget in absolute figures is almost 25 times bigger than Russia’s. This is what in defense is referred to as ‘their home — their fortress.’ And good for them, I say. Well done!” quote by Vladimir Putin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/ec3/vladimir-putin-261_absolutes_their-the-u-s-s-defense-budget-in-absolu_10791.jpg)
