Ability Quote by John Berryman
“There is no such thing as Freedom (though it is the most important condition of human life, after Humility, -which does not exist either). There is only Slavery (walls around one) and absence-of-Slavery (ability to walk in any direction, or to remain still).”
About This Quote
The statement argues that true freedom does not exist; only slavery (restrictions) and the opposite, freedom from restrictions, which is the real condition of human life.
In simple terms: Freedom is an illusion; only constraints and their absence exist.
Key Takeaway
Seek to remove unnecessary constraints.
Themes
freedom
constraint
human condition
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- political activism
- mindfulness practice
- career choices
Key Concepts
philosophy
existentialism
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate between necessary limits and oppression?
- What does true freedom mean to you?
A Different Perspective
The definition may be too binary, ignoring nuanced degrees of autonomy.
