Un-American, adj. Wicked, intolerable, heathenish.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Bierce satirizes how political labels like un-American are used to dismiss anything disliked as evil.
- In plain terms
- Calling something un-American just means you hate it and think it is wrong.
- What can you take from it?
- Be wary of using patriotism to shut down criticism.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does criticism become un-American?
- Who decides what is wicked?
Another view
The definition assumes all criticism of America is valid.
More from Ambrose Bierce
Twice, adv. Once too often.
Permalink to quote #81 Virtues, n. pl. Certain abstentions.
Permalink to quote #83 Success, n. The one unpardonable sin against one's fellows.
Permalink to quote #80
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