Authority Quote by Joseph Addison
“Most of our fellow-subjects are guided either by the prejudice of education or by a deference to the judgment of those who perhaps in their own hearts disapprove the opinions which they industriously spread among the multitude.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Spectator, Joseph Addison, 1711
People’s opinions are shaped by education bias or deference to authority, often suppressing personal judgment.
In simple terms: Education and authority bias opinions.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and think independently.
Themes
conformity
authority
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- public discourse
- education systems
- media consumption
- policy making
Key Concepts
social influence
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- What biases affect your decisions?
- How to balance respect and independence?
A Different Perspective
Overreliance on authority can stifle innovation.
![“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)