Which is ideology? Which not? You shall know them by their assertion of truth, their contempt for considered reflection, and their fear of debate.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Ideology is identified by its claim to absolute truth, disdain for careful thought, and avoidance of debate.
- In plain terms
- Watch for claims of absolute truth and fear of discussion to spot ideology.
- What can you take from it?
- Ideology avoids open debate and demands unquestioned truth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you react when someone refuses to engage in debate?
- What signs show someone is treating their view as absolute truth?
Another view
Some non-ideological views may also resist debate due to time or resource constraints.
More from John Ralston Saul
It is undoubtedly easier to believe in absolutes, follow blindly, mouth received wisdom. But that is self-betrayal.
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