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Cages Quote by Margaret Atwood

“I won't fatten them in cages, though. I won't ply them with poisoned fruit items. I won't change them into clockwork images or talking shadows. I won't drain out their life's blood. They can do all those things for themselves.” quote by Margaret Atwood
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““I won't fatten them in cages, though. I won't ply them with poisoned fruit items. I won't change them into clockwork images or talking shadows. I won't drain out their life's blood. They can do all those things for themselves.””

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Handmaid's Tale, 1985

The narrator declares a refusal to exploit or control others, asserting autonomy and ethical limits.

In simple terms: She refuses to imprison or manipulate beings.

Key Takeaway

Respect autonomy and avoid exploitation.

Themes

ethics autonomy control rights

Mood

serious thoughtful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • activism
  • education
  • business leadership
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

philosophy human rights animal welfare environmental ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is intervention justified?
  • How do we define ethical boundaries?
A Different Perspective

Balancing protection with freedom can be complex.

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