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
All rulers in all ages have tried to impose a false view of the world upon their followers.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that leaders throughout history have often distorted reality to manipulate their followers.
George Orwell highlights the enduring tendency of rulers to shape and control the perceptions of those they govern. By imposing a 'false view of the world,' these leaders seek to maintain their power and authority, often obscuring the truth in order to influence public opinion and suppress dissent. This reflects a broader commentary on the manipulation of information and the importance of critical thought in the face of political propaganda.
Themes
RulersTruthManipulationPropagandaPower
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about government transparency, one might reference this quote to illustrate the need for skepticism toward authority.
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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