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Hierarchy Quotes About Power and Rank

On power, order, and rank

These hierarchy quotes look at power structures in unexpected places, from prison rank to whether the Arts should have any hierarchy at all.

The hierarchy shouldn't fear what we're doing.

Quotes by William P. Leahy

There's a hierarchy in prison, and I was right at the top.

Quotes by Tommy Chong

I don't think there should be a hierarchy of what is valid in the arts.

Quotes by Seth Numrich

Hierarchy is is much reviled in the present day.

Quotes by Mary Douglas

Arts Quotes

I detest this contemporary trend to destroy the traditional hierarchy of genres.

Quotes by Italo Calvino

Legislators have a formal set of responsibilities to work together, but there's no hierarchy.

Quotes by Barney Frank

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some of these quotes criticize hierarchy in general?
One quote states plainly that hierarchy is much reviled in the present day, reflecting a broader distrust of rigid rank and authority, with some willing to Destroy old structures rather than simply reform them.
Does hierarchy exist even in unexpected settings like prison?
Yes - one quote describes a clear hierarchy inside prison, with the speaker noting they were right at the top of it. It shows that rank and status can form even in the most restrictive environments.
Should there be a hierarchy of what counts as valid art?
One quote argues firmly against that idea, rejecting any ranking of what's considered legitimate within creative work. It suggests artistic value shouldn't be judged by rigid, top-down standards.
What does it mean when a quote says hierarchy shouldn't fear certain actions?
That quote suggests those in power have nothing to be threatened by regarding the speaker's activities, implying confidence rather than defiance toward the existing structure above them.
Are these quotes mostly for or against hierarchy as a concept?
They lean skeptical overall, with most questioning whether strict rank is necessary or fair, even while acknowledging hierarchy shows up almost everywhere, from institutions to informal social groups.

One quote pushes back on rigid rank simply for Doing things a certain way, arguing hierarchy is more reviled than respected today.