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About this quote

What does it mean?
The reason for silence matters less than the fact that silence is enforced by fear or force.
In plain terms
Silence caused by fear is similar to silence caused by force.
What can you take from it?
The outcome of fear and force can be the same.

Where it applies

  • political dissent
  • social pressure
  • internal conflict

Putting it to work

  • recognize subtle coercion

Questions to consider

  • When does silence become complicity?

Another view

It assumes external force and internal fear are equally impactful.

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