Achieve Quote by Lillian B. Rubin
“By identifying with the powerful, the disempowered achieve a measure of safety, at least for a moment. By doing the bidding of those in power, they become a necessary part of the system, useful so long as they serve to contain the stirrings and strivings of the oppressed. By making the rules and values of their oppressor their own, they separate themselves from the rest of their group and, temporarily at least, assuage the pain of their stigmatized status.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gender Knot by Lillian B. Rubin, 1984
Aligning with dominant power offers temporary safety but deepens division and internal conflict for the marginalized.
In simple terms: Seeking safety through the oppressor's rules creates a false sense of security.
Key Takeaway
Question the cost of compromising identity for safety.
Themes
power dynamics
identity
survival
Mood
critical
cautious
Type
sociological
ethical
When to use this quote
- workplace politics
- social movements
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
co-optation
psychological coping
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the long‑term effects of such alignment?
- Can true safety be achieved without compromise?
A Different Perspective
Safety gained this aligning with power may erode authentic solidarity.
![“I have appealed to our own experience for the truth of what I advance on this subject [that the legislative power is the predominant power]. Were it necessary to verify this experience by particular proofs, they might be multiplied without end. I might find a witness in every citizen who has…” quote by James Madison](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/90b/james-madison-373_administration_i-have-appealed-to-our-own-experience-fo_82955.jpg)
