--- title: "Meaning & Key Takeaway of: I am opposed to authority, that egg of…" description: "\"I am opposed to authority, that egg of misery and oppression; I am opposed to it largely for what it does to those who exercise it.\" — Patrick O'Brian" image: "https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0cb/patrick-o-brian-2283_authority_i-am-opposed-to-authority-that-egg-of-mi_869137.png" --- # I am opposed to authority, that egg of misery and… ![“I am opposed to authority, that egg of misery and oppression; I am opposed to it largely for what it does to those who exercise it.” quote by Patrick O'Brian](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0cb/patrick-o-brian-2283_authority_i-am-opposed-to-authority-that-egg-of-mi_869137.png) [Download](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0cb/patrick-o-brian-2283_authority_i-am-opposed-to-authority-that-egg-of-mi_869137.png) [Open image](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/i/0cb/patrick-o-brian-2283_authority_i-am-opposed-to-authority-that-egg-of-mi_869137.png) > “I am opposed to authority, that egg of misery and oppression; I am opposed to it largely for what it does to those who exercise it.” [Patrick O'Brian](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/patrick-o-brian/) ## About This Quote This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation. Critiques authority as a source of suffering, especially for those subjected to it, urging vigilance against oppressive power. **In simple terms:** Authority can cause oppression and harm. Key Takeaway Question and challenge power structures. Themes authority oppression freedom justice Mood critical analytical Type philosophical political When to use this quote - workplace hierarchy - government policy - personal relationships Key Concepts political theory ethical critique Questions to Reflect On - When is authority justified? - How can we balance control and liberty? A Different Perspective Authority can also provide order and safety. ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet [Authority](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/authority/) [Exercise](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/exercise/) [Misery](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/misery/) [Oppression](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/oppression/) [Power](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/about/power/) ## Related quotes > [Many will think they may reasonably blame me by alleging that my proofs are opposed to the authority of certain men held in the…](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/leonardo-da-vinci/many-will-think-they-may-reasonably-blame-me-by-alleging-that-my/) [Leonardo da Vinci](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/author/leonardo-da-vinci/) > [Communities tend to be guided less than individuals by conscience and a sense of responsibility. How much misery does this fact cause mankind! 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