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Freedom Quote by Ursula K. Le Guin

“... privilege was obligation; command was service; power, the gift itself, entailed a heavy loss of freedom.” quote by Ursula K. Le Guin
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““... privilege was obligation; command was service; power, the gift itself, entailed a heavy loss of freedom.””

Ursula K. Le Guin

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Left Hand of Darkness, 1969

Power carries inherent responsibilities and limits personal freedom, turning privilege into a burden of duty.

In simple terms: Power reduces freedom.

Key Takeaway

Balance authority with responsibility.

Themes

power responsibility freedom

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • leadership
  • governance
  • activism

Key Concepts

political philosophy ethics social contract

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle loss of freedom with power?
  • What duties accompany privilege?
A Different Perspective

Power can become oppressive if not checked.

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