more on this theme | more from this thinker | more from this text
Full Idea
Every oppressive society is cemented by a religion of power, which falsifies all social relations by enabling the powerful to command over and above what they are able to impose.
Gist of Idea
In oppressive societies the scope of actual control is extended by a religion of power
Source
Simone Weil (Reflections on Liberty and Social Oppression [1934], p.69)
Book Ref
Weil,Simone: 'Oppression and Liberty' [Routledge 1955], p.69
A Reaction
A rather acute and accurate observation, I think. Flashy cars, grand uniforms, lots of medals, rituals of deference….. Sometimes I like the order and security this brings, but Simone Weil could quickly change my view.