I think there are a lot of rules for women. We have a lot of expectations and a lot of rules for women. So we're expected to march in a straight line, and when we don't, all hell breaks loose.
Roxane GayRead
Public intellectuals are often put in the position of having their words, no matter how off-the-cuff, treated as doctrine.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Public intellectuals must be careful with their words as they can be interpreted as authoritative.
Roxane Gay's quote underscores the weight that words carry for public intellectuals. When individuals in intellectual circles express their thoughts, even if casually, those opinions can be taken seriously and viewed as definitive statements, thereby placing a significant responsibility on them to think carefully about how they articulate their ideas, knowing that they can influence public discourse and shaping understandings of complex issues.
Themes
IntellectualsWordsResponsibilityDoctrinePublic Discourse
In practice
Example use cases
During a panel discussion on media responsibility, this quote can highlight the need for careful word choice by public figures.
More from Roxane Gay
All quotes βI believe in the freedom of expression, unequivocally - though, as I have written before, I wish more people would understand that freedom of expression is not freedom from consequence.
Roxane GayRead
No one is helped when cultural critics use their voices irresponsibly.
Roxane GayRead
I have never dreamed of being a princess. I have not longed for Prince Charming. I have and do long for something resembling a happily ever after. I am supposed to be above such flights of fantasy, but I am not. I am enamored of fairy tales.
Roxane GayRead
There has been, and there will continue to be, vigorous discussions about race in America. I worry that little will come of these discussions because we aren't addressing what must be done to change the current racial climate.
Roxane GayRead
I think the world is ambivalent about feminism. So I can't blame college students. I think they're reflecting the greater culture's attitude toward feminism. So what I can do is, in ways that are appropriate, advocate for feminism and help the students learn what feminism is about.
Roxane GayRead
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