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
...men can only be highly civilized while other men, inevitably less civilized, are there to guard and feed them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Civilization relies on a hierarchy where some people support others, often at their own expense.
In this quote, George Orwell suggests that the advancement of civilization and the comforts it brings are often dependent on the existence of inequality. The 'highly civilized' individuals may attain their status and comfort through the labor and support of others who are less privileged. This dynamic raises questions about social justice and the ethical implications of societal structures.
Themes
CivilizationInequalitySocietySupportJustice
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about social justice reforms.
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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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One man's death: that is a catastrophe. A hundred thousand dead: that is a statistic
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