Apparently, a concern for others is self-love at its least attractive, while greed is now a sign of the higher altruism. But then to reverse, periodically, the meanings of words is a very small price to pay for the freedom not only to conform but to consume.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Vidal critiques how society redefines moral terms to justify conformity and consumption, masking self-interest as altruism.
- In plain terms
- Society twists words to make selfishness look good and conformity look like freedom.
- What can you take from it?
- Language is manipulated to serve power and consumerism rather than truth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How often do you notice words being redefined to suit a agenda?
- What does 'freedom' mean in your current context?
Another view
The quote assumes a level of intent in language shifts that may sometimes be organic.
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