Authority Quote by Gottfried Benn
“He who has money, lives long: he who has authority, can do no wrong: he who has might, establishes right. Such is history! Ecce historia!”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Unknown, possibly a philosophical treatise on power and morality
Power, wealth, and authority are presented as justifications for actions, suggesting history is shaped by those who hold might.
In simple terms: History is written by the powerful, who claim their actions are right.
Key Takeaway
Question the narratives of authority and power.
Themes
history
power
ethics
Mood
critical
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- education
- activism
- leadership
Key Concepts
authority
justice
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Who decides what is 'right' in history?
- How can we challenge power structures?
A Different Perspective
The statement can be used to legitimize oppression.
![“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)