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
In the past the need for a hierarchal form of society has been the doctrine specifically of the High. It had been preached by kings and aristocrats and the priests, lawyers and the like who were parasitical upon them, and it had generally been softened by promises of an imaginary world beyond the grave.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote critiques the historical justification for societal hierarchy and its reliance on promises of an afterlife.
In this quote, George Orwell discusses how hierarchal societies have traditionally been justified by the ruling elite, such as kings, aristocrats, and religious leaders, who benefit from such structures. He suggests that these leaders have perpetuated such systems through the promise of rewards in an imaginary afterlife, reinforcing their power while exploiting the masses who are led to believe that their suffering in this life will be compensated in the next.
Themes
HierarchySocietyPowerAuthorityElite
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech addressing social justice, one might use this quote to highlight the manipulation by those in power.
More from George Orwell
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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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