“Power resides where men believe it resides. It's a trick. A shadow on the wall”
— George R.R. Martin
Simplified Meaning:
People only have power if others think they do. It's like an illusion or a magic trick, something that isn't really there but seems real. For example, think of a king who rules because his subjects believe he should. If everyone suddenly decided not to follow him, his power would vanish. This suggests that the authority is not in the person or title itself but in the belief of the people. Understanding this can help you see that many forms of power only exist because people agree to accept them. This realization can empower you to question and challenge unjust authorities.
Related tags
Authority Belief Control Deception Illusion Influence Perception Power Psychology ShadowFEATURED QUOTES