The art of those who govern consists above all in the science of employing words.
Gustave Le BonRead
The masses have never thirsted after truth. Whoever can supply them with illusions is easily their master; whoever attempts to destroy their illusions is always their victim.
Interpretation
What this quote means
People are often more drawn to comforting illusions than to harsh truths.
In this quote, Gustave Le Bon suggests that the general public tends to prefer comforting falsehoods over confronting the often uncomfortable reality of truth. Those who can provide these comforting illusions hold power over the masses, while those who challenge these beliefs face resistance and criticism. This reflects a broader commentary on human nature and societal dynamics.
Themes
TruthIllusionPowerSocietyHuman Nature
In practice
Example use cases
In a public debate about media influence, one might use this quote to illustrate how sensationalism can replace honest reporting.
More from Gustave Le Bon
All quotes βSimilar quotes
Nothing that comes from the deep, passional soul is bad, or can be bad.
D. H. LawrenceRead
Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers. Remember when you're talkin' to the man upstairs; that just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care. Some of God's greatest gifts are unanswered prayers
Garth BrooksRead
Government is a true religion: it has its dogmas, its mysteries, its priests. To submit it to the individual discussion is to destroy it; it is given life only through the national mind, that is to say, by political faith, which is a creed.
Joseph De MaistreRead
What evidence do you have that you know Jesus?
Francis ChanRead
The outer space beings are my brothers. They sent me here. They already_x000D_ know my music.
Sun RaRead
What makes a Christian a Christian is not perfection but forgiveness.
Max LucadoRead