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
To accept civilization as it is practically means accepting decay.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Accepting the current state of civilization implies acknowledging its flaws and moral decline.
George Orwell's quote suggests that to fully embrace the civilization we live in is to also recognize the inherent decay and moral degradation that accompanies it. It points to the idea that societies often deteriorate over time, and that complacency in accepting the status quo may lead to an acceptance of decline rather than striving for improvement or change.
Themes
CivilizationDecayComplacencySocietyChange
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on societal values, this quote can highlight the importance of critical engagement with our world.
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.
George OrwellRead
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.
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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