There is nothing respecting which a man may be so long unconscious as of the extent and strength of his prejudices.
Interpretation
People often remain unaware of their own biases and preconceived notions.
This quote suggests that individuals can be oblivious to the deep-rooted prejudices they hold, which can shape their perceptions and actions. It highlights the importance of self-awareness and reflection in uncovering these biases to lead a more enlightened and objective life.
In practice
In a discussion about diversity, one could use this quote to emphasize the need for awareness of personal biases.
When you understand, that what you're telling is just a story. It isn't happening anymore. When you realize the story you're telling is just words, when you can just crumble up and throw your past in the trashcan, then we'll figure out who you're going to be.
Let me be the child in the story and declare that the Emperor is naked β or that America is culturally bankrupt.
When I consider this carefully, I find not a single property which with certainty separates the waking state from the dream. How can you be certain that your whole life is not a dream?
If you meet with a system of theology which magnifies man, flee from it as far as you can.
If they would rather die, . . . they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.
The method of "postulating" what we want has many advantages; they are the same as the advantages of theft over honest toil.
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