My parents were very poor, but we never felt any sense of need or want. It was a very close, loving, tightly-knit family growing up, and I never felt any sense of deprivation or anything like that.
George J. MitchellRead
In every society in human history, including the United States, those in power seek to imbue themselves with the attributes of religion and patriotism as a way of getting greater support for their policy and insulating themselves from any criticism.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Those in power often align themselves with religion and patriotism to gain public support and shield themselves from criticism.
This quote by George J. Mitchell suggests that throughout history, leaders and those in authority have strategically associated themselves with religious and patriotic sentiments. By doing so, they not only seek to garner the approval of the public but also establish a protective barrier against dissenting voices. This manipulation of societal values reflects a broader commentary on the intersection of power, belief, and governance.
Themes
PowerReligionPatriotismCriticismSociety
In practice
Example use cases
In a political debate, a candidate could use this quote to discuss the manipulation of public sentiment.
More from George J. Mitchell
All quotes →As they say, one thing led to another, and, ultimately, the British and Irish governments asked me to serve as chairman of the peace negotiations, which ironically began six years ago this week.
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