Meaning of "Badges" by Minutemen

The lyrics of "Badges" by the Minutemen reflect a sentiment of defiance towards authority and the idea of blind obedience. The repetition of "We don't need no badges" emphasizes the rejection of symbols of power and control. The phrase "We don't need no stinkin' badges" is actually a famous misquote from the movie "The Treasure of the Sierra Madre" and has since become a symbol of anti-authoritarianism. The song can be interpreted as a call to question authority and societal norms, encouraging listeners to think for themselves and not blindly follow rules and regulations. It embodies the punk rock attitude of challenging the status quo and standing up against oppressive forces.