Meaning: The quote "What we want is to become masters in our own house" by Michael Ignatieff, a Canadian politician and author, reflects the desire for individuals or communities to have control over their own lives and destinies. This quote encapsulates the aspiration for autonomy, self-determination, and the ability to make decisions that directly affect one's own well-being and surroundings.

In a broader sense, the concept of "masters in our own house" can be interpreted as the quest for personal and collective empowerment. It suggests a longing for autonomy, independence, and the freedom to shape one's own future. This sentiment is deeply rooted in the principles of self-governance and self-reliance, emphasizing the importance of individuals or communities being able to determine their own paths and make choices that align with their values and aspirations.

Michael Ignatieff, as a politician and public intellectual, has often engaged with issues of individual agency, human rights, and the role of government in shaping people's lives. His quote can be seen as a call for individuals to assert their rights and take ownership of their circumstances, rather than being subject to external forces or influences beyond their control. It also speaks to the idea of creating a sense of belonging and security within one's own sphere of influence, whether that be at the personal, community, or national level.

The notion of "masters in our own house" also has implications for social and political movements, particularly those focused on marginalized or oppressed communities seeking to assert their rights and assert their agency. It reflects a desire for marginalized groups to have a say in shaping the systems and structures that govern their lives, rather than being passive recipients of decisions made by others.

In a global context, the quote can be applied to the struggle for self-determination and sovereignty among nations and indigenous communities. It speaks to the desire for communities to be able to govern themselves, protect their cultural heritage, and secure their own economic and social development without external interference.

At its core, the quote by Michael Ignatieff encapsulates the universal human desire for autonomy, self-determination, and the ability to shape one's own destiny. It is a call for individuals and communities to assert their agency, take control of their own lives, and strive for a sense of mastery and ownership over their circumstances.

In conclusion, Michael Ignatieff's quote "What we want is to become masters in our own house" captures the fundamental human aspiration for autonomy, self-determination, and the ability to shape one's own destiny. It reflects the desire for individuals and communities to have control over their lives and surroundings, and to assert their agency in shaping their own future. This sentiment resonates across diverse contexts, from personal empowerment to social and political movements seeking greater autonomy and self-governance.