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The masses hold the true power in society from "summary" of The Politics of Obedience and Étienne de La Boétie by Estienne de La Boétie,Paul Bonnefon

The power that rulers hold over their subjects is not inherent, but rather granted to them by the masses who submit to their authority. In essence, the power of the ruler is contingent upon the obedience of the people. This dynamic reveals an important truth about society: it is the masses who ultimately hold the true power, not the rulers themselves. The masses have the ability to withdraw their consent and obedience at any time, thereby undermining the authority of the ruler. Without the compliance of the people, the ruler's power is rendered meaningless. This is a fundamental aspect of the relationship between rulers and their subjects – it is a voluntary exchange of power, rather than a one-sided imposition of authority. The willingness of the masses to obey is what sustains the power structures in society. However, this obedience is not a foregone conclusion – it is a choice that individuals make, consciously or unconsciously. If the people were to collectively reject the authority of the ruler, they could potentially bring about a radical shift in the power dynamics of society.
  1. It highlights the role of the masses in upholding or dismantling power structures. By recognizing their own power to resist and disobey, individuals can begin to reclaim agency in the face of oppressive systems. Ultimately, the true power in society lies with the people, not the rulers who seek to control them.
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The Politics of Obedience and Étienne de La Boétie

Estienne de La Boétie

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