If one harbours anywhere in one's mind a nationalistic loyalty or hatred, certain facts, although in a sense known to be true, are inadmissible.
George OrwellRead
Everyone believes in the atrocities of the enemy and disbelieves in those of his own side, without ever bothering to examine the evidence.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People often accept the wrongdoings of their opponents while ignoring the faults of their own side, without critically analyzing the facts.
This quote by George Orwell highlights a common cognitive bias in human behavior where individuals are more inclined to believe negative narratives about their opponents while dismissing or rationalizing similar actions taken by their own group. It encourages critical thinking and self-reflection, urging people to examine their beliefs and the information presented to them rather than accepting it at face value, fostering a more balanced perspective on conflicts and moral truths.
Themes
BiasPerceptionTruthEvidenceConflict
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion about a controversial political issue, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of examining both sides critically.
More from George Orwell
All quotes βThe creatures outside looked from pig to man, and from man to pig, and from pig to man again; but already it was impossible to say which was which.
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Political writing in our time consists almost entirely of prefabricated phrases bolted together like the pieces of a child's Meccano set. It is the unavoidable result of self-censorship. To write in plain, vigorous language one has to think fearlessly, and if one thinks fearlessly one cannot be politically orthodox.
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Not to expose your true feelings to an adult seems to be instinctive from the age of seven or eight onwards.
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As with the Christian religion, the worst advertisement for Socialism is its adherents.
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It is fatal to look hungry. It makes people want to kick you.
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