Idiot, n. A member of a large and powerful tribe whose influence in human affairs has always been dominant and controlling. The Idiot's activity is not confined to any special field of thought or action, but 'pervades and regulates the whole.' He has the last word in everything; his decision is unappealable. He sets the fashions and opinion of taste, dictates the limitations of speech and circumscribes conduct with a dead-line.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Stupidity is described as a dominant tribe controlling human affairs.
- In plain terms
- Fools control everything in society and set all rules.
- What can you take from it?
- Ignorance often holds the most power.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do fools really control everything?
- Why is ignorance powerful?
Another view
It ignores areas where expertise or skill dominates.
More from Ambrose Bierce
Hers, pron. His.
Permalink to quote #43 Infancy, n. The period of our lives when, according to Wordsworth, 'Heaven lies about us.' The world begins lying about us pretty soon afterward.
Permalink to quote #45 Helpmate, n. A wife, or bitter half.
Permalink to quote #42
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