Skip to content

Anarchy Quote by Margaret Atwood

“There is more than one kind of freedom," said Aunt Lydia. "Freedom to and freedom from. In the days of anarchy, it was freedom to. Now you are being given freedom from. Don't underrate it.” quote by Margaret Atwood
Download Open image
“There is more than one kind of freedom," said Aunt Lydia. "Freedom to and freedom from. In the days of anarchy, it was freedom to. Now you are being given freedom from. Don't underrate it.”

Margaret Atwood

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Handmaid's Tale, 1985

Freedom has dual aspects: the ability to act and the relief from oppression; the shift from one to the other changes its value.

In simple terms: Freedom to act vs. freedom from oppression.

Key Takeaway

Recognize both dimensions of liberty.

Themes

freedom choice oppression

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • legal reforms
  • self‑empowerment

Key Concepts

political theory personal autonomy

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you value autonomy more than safety?
  • How does “freedom from” affect responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Freedom without agency can become empty; overemphasis on safety may limit growth.

3.9 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Margaret Atwood

Explore all 2,072 Margaret Atwood quotes

More Anarchy quotes

Browse all 795 Anarchy quotes