Cab Quote by Robert Benchley
“We call ourselves a free nation, and yet we let ourselves be told what cabs we can and can't take by a man at a hotel door, simply because he has a drum major's uniform on.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Man Who Was a Drum Major,” 1935
Authority can be absurd when superficial symbols dictate rules.
In simple terms: Superficial authority can dictate behavior.
Key Takeaway
Question authority based on merit, not appearance.
Themes
authority
absurdity
conformity
Mood
skeptical
humorous
Type
satire
commentary
When to use this quote
- public policy
- workplace rules
- social norms
- fashion trends
Key Concepts
social critique
political satire
Questions to Reflect On
- When do you accept rules?
- How to challenge superficial authority?
A Different Perspective
Not all authority is inherently flawed.
![“Somalis have made my city of Wilmington, Delaware, [their home] on a smaller scale. There is a large, very identifiable Somali community, i might add if you ever come to the train station with me you'll notice I have great relationships with them because there's an awful lot driving cabs and are…” quote by Joe Biden](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e9a/joe-biden-454_add_somalis-have-made-my-city-of-wilmington_71546.jpg)
