Control Quote by Ismail Kadare
““in the first place, Majesty, a pyramid is power. It is repression,force,and wealth. But it is just as much: domination of the rabble; the narrowing of its mind; the weakening of its will; monotony; and waste. O my Pharaoh, it is your most reliable guardian. Your secret police. Your army. Your fleet. Your harem. The higher it is, the tinier your subjects will seem. And the smaller your subjects, the more you rise, o Majesty, to your full height.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Pyramid, Ismail Kadare, 1995
Power structures like pyramids concentrate authority, suppress dissent, and manipulate perception, serving as tools of control and domination.
In simple terms: Pyramids concentrate power and control people.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge hierarchical oppression.
Themes
authority
control
manipulation
social hierarchy
psychology
Mood
critical
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
political
social commentary
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- organizational design
- social movements
- education
- media literacy
Key Concepts
totalitarianism
symbolic architecture
psychological domination
Questions to Reflect On
- How does hierarchy affect individual agency?
- Can power be redistributed without loss of order?
A Different Perspective
Such structures can also inspire unity and shared purpose if repurposed positively.
