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
The nationalist not only does not disapprove of atrocities committed by his own side, but he has a remarkable capacity for not even hearing about them.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Nationalism can blind individuals to the wrongdoings of their own group, as they prioritize loyalty over morality.
In this quote, George Orwell highlights the dangerous implications of nationalism, suggesting that such loyalty often leads individuals to overlook or dismiss the atrocities committed by their own nation or group. This selective perception enables them to remain unaware or indifferent to moral failures, thus indicating a troubling aspect of human nature where allegiance can overshadow ethical considerations.
Themes
NationalismAtrocitiesMoralityLoyaltyBlindness
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about political ethics, one might use this quote to illustrate the dangers of extreme nationalism.
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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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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