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
Some ideas are so stupid that only intellectuals believe them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that some ideas may be foolish, yet are accepted by those who pride themselves on their intellectual status.
George Orwell’s quote highlights the irony that sometimes complex or convoluted ideas are embraced by intellectuals despite their inherent foolishness. It serves as a critique of the tendency among educated individuals to adopt certain beliefs without critical scrutiny, underscoring the importance of maintaining common sense and discernment in the face of seemingly sophisticated arguments.
Themes
IdeasIntellectFoolishnessWisdomCritique
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about controversial theories, one could use this quote to challenge the acceptance of unfounded ideas.
More from George Orwell
All quotes →The 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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