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Once you permit those who are convinced of their own…

“Once you permit those who are convinced of their own superior rightness to censor and silence and suppress those who hold contrary opinions, just at that moment the citadel has been surrendered.” quote by Archibald MacLeish
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“Once you permit those who are convinced of their own superior rightness to censor and silence and suppress those who hold contrary opinions, just at that moment the citadel has been surrendered.”

Archibald MacLeish

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Censoring dissenting voices surrenders the citadel of free expression, handing power to the oppressor.

In simple terms: Silencing opposition sacrifices freedom.

Key Takeaway

Guard free speech fiercely.

Themes

freedom censorship power speech

Mood

cautious thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • Political debates
  • media regulation
  • academic environments

Key Concepts

Authoritarian control intellectual freedom public discourse

Questions to Reflect On

  • When is limiting speech justified?
  • Who decides what is “superior” opinion?
A Different Perspective

Censorship can be justified under security claims.

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