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Busy Quote by Tom Robbins

“The fact is, what I hated in the Church was what I hated in society. Namely, authoritarians. Power freaks. Rigid dogmatists. Those greedy, underloved, undersexed twits who want to run everything. While the rest of us are busy living - busy tasting and testing and hugging and kissing and goofing…” quote by Tom Robbins
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“The fact is, what I hated in the Church was what I hated in society. Namely, authoritarians. Power freaks. Rigid dogmatists. Those greedy, underloved, undersexed twits who want to run everything. While the rest of us are busy living - busy tasting and testing and hugging and kissing and goofing and growing - they are busy taking over.”

Tom Robbins

About This Quote

Source Interview: The New Yorker, 1990

The speaker criticizes authoritarian, power‑driven individuals both in religious institutions and broader society, contrasting them with people who embrace life’s pleasures and growth.

In simple terms: Authoritarians dominate institutions while others enjoy life.

Key Takeaway

Resist control, cherish freedom.

Themes

authority individualism society religion freedom

Mood

defiant reflective

Type

critical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • personal relationships
  • community building
  • creative expression

Key Concepts

authoritarianism power dynamics human fulfillment

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you identify and challenge authoritarian tendencies in your life?
  • What practices nurture a freer, more joyful existence?
A Different Perspective

Authoritarians may claim moral superiority, but their rigidity stifles progress.

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