Ursula K. Le Guin: No Coinage But Power

Posted by admin on Sunday, June 7, 2015

Ursula K. Le Guin Money Quotation saying governments deal only with the powerful, whether corporations or other governments and it issues that power. Ursula K. Le Guin said:
 

 

“The individual cannot bargain with the State. The State recognizes no coinage but power: and it issues the coins itself” — Ursula K. Le Guin

 

 

In this quote, author Ursula K. Le Guin is making a critical observation about the relationship between individuals and the State (government). Her view is that as citizens, people cannot negotiate or make deals with the overarching authority and power of the State on equal terms.

Le Guin implies the State wields a monopoly on the legitimate use of power within its territory and recognizes no other currency or medium of exchange in its dealings and decision making processes. She suggests the State maintains control by being the sole issuer and definer of the “coins” of power that determine political outcomes and policy.

Le Guin appears to be arguing that citizens have little independent ability to bargain with or counterbalance the dominance of the State due to its supremacy over the means of power and force within society.