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
Oceania was at war with Eurasia; therefore Oceania had always been at war with Eurasia.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote highlights the malleability of truth in a war-driven society. It suggests that perception can be manipulated to serve political agendas.
In this quote, George Orwell illustrates the concept of doublethink, where a society's beliefs are reshaped to align with current political needs. It conveys how power can dictate reality, as Oceanic propaganda continuously reinforces the narrative that it has always been at war with Eurasia. This speaks to the manipulation of truth and history in totalitarian regimes, where the ruling party controls the information to maintain control over the populace.
Themes
WarTruthManipulationPoliticsControl
In practice
Example use cases
During a political rally, you might use this quote to illustrate how politicians sometimes rewrite history.
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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George OrwellRead
Not to expose your true feelings to an adult seems to be instinctive from the age of seven or eight onwards.
George OrwellRead
As with the Christian religion, the worst advertisement for Socialism is its adherents.
George OrwellRead
It is fatal to look hungry. It makes people want to kick you.
George OrwellRead
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