The opposite of love is not hate, it's indifference.
Elie WieselRead
Take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Taking a stand is essential; remaining neutral can harm those who are oppressed.
In this quote, Elie Wiesel emphasizes the importance of taking a position in the face of injustice. He argues that neutrality is not a passive stance; rather, it supports the oppressor by allowing them to continue their actions unchecked, while it leaves the victims without the support they need to fight against their plight. This call to action encourages individuals to confront wrongdoing rather than remain complacent.
Themes
NeutralityOppressionVictimInjusticeCourage
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in discussions about social justice movements to underscore the necessity of taking action.
More from Elie Wiesel
All quotes →With every cell of my being and with every fiber of my memory I oppose the death penalty in all forms. I do not believe any civilized society should be at the service of death. I don't think it's human to become an agent of the angel of death.
Elie WieselRead
Certain things, certain events, seem inexplicable only for a time: up to the moment when the veil is torn aside.
Elie WieselRead
We're alone, but we are capable of communicating to one another both our loneliness and our desire to break through it. You say, 'I'm alone.' Someone answers, 'I'm alone too.' There's a shift in the scale of power. A bridge is thrown between the two abysses.
Elie WieselRead
No one is as capable of gratitude as one who has escaped the kingdom of night.
Elie WieselRead
My loyalty to my people, to our people, and to Israel comes first and prevents me from saying anything critical of Israel outside Israel… As a Jew I see my role as a melitz yosher, a defender of Israel: I defend even her mistakes… I must identify with whatever Israel does – even with her errors.
Elie WieselRead
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