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About this quote

What does it mean?
Hoffer values his prejudices as essential components of his mental identity, comparing them to vital physical parts.
In plain terms
I keep my prejudices because they are central to how my mind works and who I am.
What can you take from it?
Prejudices can be seen as core parts of one's mental structure.

Where it applies

  • self-reflection
  • philosophical discussion
  • personal identity

Putting it to work

  • examine personal biases
  • consider mental identity
  • value personal traits

Questions to consider

  • Are prejudices necessary for identity?
  • How do biases shape the mind?

Another view

Calling prejudices essential ignores their potential to harm others or limit growth.

More from Eric Hoffer

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  2. To think out a problem is not unlike drawing a caricature. You have to exaggerate the salient point and leave out that which is not typical. 'To illustrate a p…

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  3. Ours is a golden age of minorities. At no time in the past have dissident minorities felt so much at home and had so much room to throw their weight around. Th…

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