What can be asserted without evidence can be dismissed without evidence.
Christopher HitchensRead
In a public dialogue with Salman in London he [Edward Said] had once described the Palestinian plight as one where his people, expelled and dispossessed by Jewish victors, were in the unique historical position of being 'the victims of the victims': there was something quasi-Christian, I thought, in the apparent humility of that statement.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the complex nature of victimhood and historical injustice.
Christopher Hitchens discusses Edward Said's perspective on the Palestinian plight, illustrating how the Palestinians, who have suffered dispossession and violence, are seen as 'the victims of the victims.' This statement highlights the tragic irony of their situation, suggesting a depth of humility in acknowledging the suffering experienced by both Palestinians and Jews in their historical conflict.
Themes
PalestinianVictimhoodHistoricalInjusticeHumility
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion on social justice, one might quote this to emphasize the complexity of victimhood.
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I boldly assert, in fact I think I know, that a lot of friendships and connections absolutely depend upon a sort of shared language, or slang. Not necessarily designed to exclude others, this can establish a certain comity and, even after a long absence, re-establish it in a second.
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