To die is poignantly bitter, but the idea of having to die without having lived is unbearable. - Erich Fromm

The source of irrational authority, on the other hand, is always power over people. This power can be physical or mental, it can be realistic or only relative in terms of the anxiety and helplessness of the person submitting to this authority. Power on the one side, fear on the other, are always the buttresses on which irrational authority is built. Criticism of the authority is not only required but forbidden. Rational authority is based upon the equality of both authority and subject, which differ only with respect to the degree of knowledge of skill in a praticular field. Irrational authority is by its very nature based on inequality, implying difference in value.

We all dream; we do not understand our dreams, yet we act as if nothing strange goes on in our sleep minds, strange at least by comparison with the logical, purposeful doings of our minds when we are awake.

People are confused and unsure, they seek answers to guide them to joy, tranquillity, self-knowledge, salvation — but they also demand that it be easy to learn, that it require little or no effort, that results be quickly obtained.