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Cops Quote by Neal Stephenson

“You are hereby warned that any movement on your part not explicitly endorsed by verbal authorization on my part may pose a direct physical risk to you, as well as consequential psychological and possibly, depending on your personal belief system, spiritual risks ensuing from your personal reaction…” quote by Neal Stephenson
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““You are hereby warned that any movement on your part not explicitly endorsed by verbal authorization on my part may pose a direct physical risk to you, as well as consequential psychological and possibly, depending on your personal belief system, spiritual risks ensuing from your personal reaction to said physical risk. Any movement on your part constitutes an implicit and irrevocable acceptance of such risk," the first MetaCop says. There is a little speaker on his belt, simultaneously translating all of this into Spanish and Japanese. "Or as we used to say," the other MetaCop says, "freeze, sucker!" "Under provisions of The Mews at Windsor Heights Code, we are authorized to enforce law, national security concerns, and societal harmony on said territory also. A treaty between The Mews at Windsor Heights and White Columns authorizes us to place you in temporary custody until your status as an Investigatory Focus has been resolved." "Your ass is busted," the second MetaCop says. "As your demeanor has been nonaggressive and you carry no visible weapons, we are not authorized to employ heroic measures to ensure your cooperation," the first MetaCop says. "You stay cool and we'll stay cool," the second MetaCop says. "However, we are equipped with devices, including but not limited to projectile weapons, which, if used, may pose an extreme and immediate threat to your health and well-being." "Make one funny move and we'll blow your head off," the second MetaCop says.””

Neal Stephenson

About This Quote

A warning that any unauthorized action may expose you to physical, psychological, and spiritual danger, and that compliance is assumed by default.

In simple terms: Unauthorized actions can be dangerous and are assumed risky.

Key Takeaway

Beware of hidden risks and assume responsibility.

Themes

authority risk compliance surveillance power

Mood

cautious tense critical

Type

warning philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • law enforcement encounters
  • public protests
  • security checkpoints
  • personal decision making
  • ethical dilemmas

Key Concepts

social contract coercion risk assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What freedoms are you willing to surrender for safety?
  • How do you assess hidden risks?
A Different Perspective

The threat may be exaggerated to control behavior, limiting personal freedom.

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