Life is a near-death experience.
George CarlinRead
That's why they call it the American Dream, because you have to be asleep to believe it.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that the American Dream is an illusion that requires a level of ignorance or denial to accept.
George Carlin's quote critiques the concept of the American Dream, implying that it is not a realistic goal but rather a fantasy that many are conditioned to believe in. It points to the idea that the values and promises tied to the American Dream may not align with the reality experienced by many individuals, indicating a disconnection between aspiration and actual achievement.
Themes
American DreamIllusionBeliefRealityCritique
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about social issues and economic inequality.
More from George Carlin
All quotes →Here’s a bumper sticker I’d like to see: “We are the proud parents of a child who’s self-esteem is sufficient that he doesn’t need us promoting his minor scholastic achievements on the back of our car."
George CarlinRead
If you've got a cat and a leg, you've got a happy cat. If you've got a cat and two legs, you've got a party.
George CarlinRead
This is a lttle prayer dedicated to the separation of church and state. I guess if they are going to force those kids to pray in schools they might as well have a nice prayer like this: Our Father who art in heaven, and to the republic for which it stands, thy kingdom come, one nation indivisible as in heaven, give us this day as we forgive those who so proudly we hail. Crown thy good into temptation but deliver us from the twilight's last gleaming. Amen and Awomen.
George CarlinRead
Some people try to get out of jury duty by lying. You don't have to lie. Tell the judge the truth. Tell him you'd make a terrific juror because you can spot guilty people.
George CarlinRead
Intelligence tests are biased toward the literate.
George CarlinRead
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