I'd also like to see a quote if you (or anybody) can find one... I've never heard of this before.
I know what they're talking about; and it's pretty ambiguous. But it can be interpreted that way.
Anders: You know, Nathaniel, you're just like me.
Nathaniel: Am I, now?
Anders: Everyone hates your family for something terrible they did, even though you weren't involved!
Nathaniel: I hope you have a point, Anders.
Anders: It's like you're a mage! If there were more Howes, they'd lock all of you up in a tower to protect everyone else!
Nathaniel: A thrilling analogy.
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Nathaniel: I've thought about what you said, Anders. The comparison between my family and mages. It's idiotic. I am not about to transform into an abomination simply for being a Howe.
Anders: I didn't say it was a perfect analogy...
Nathaniel: Being a Howe also does not allow me to control your mind.
Anders: Kind of missing my point, aren't you?
Nathaniel: I am not a fan of over-simplifications.
Anders: Fine, fine. Your loss.