Affection Quote by Thomas de Quincey
“There is first the literature of knowledge, and secondly, the literature of power. The function of the first is--to teach; the function of the second is--to move, the first is a rudder, the second an oar or a sail. The first speaks to the mere discursive understanding; the second speaks ultimately, it may happen, to the higher understanding or reason, but always through affections of pleasure and sympathy.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Confessions of an English Opium-Eater, 1821
Knowledge equips minds, power moves societies; both are tools, one guides, the other drives action.
In simple terms: Knowledge teaches, power acts.
Key Takeaway
Balance learning with purposeful action.
Themes
education
politics
influence
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- teaching
- policy making
- leadership
- activism
Key Concepts
epistemology
political theory
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you ensure knowledge serves ethical ends?
- What safeguards prevent power from becoming coercive?
A Different Perspective
Power can be misused without ethical grounding.
