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It is supposed to be an axiom of "Western" civilization…

“It is supposed to be an axiom of "Western" civilization that the individual, or the truth, may not be sacrificed to hypothetical benefits such as "order.” quote by Christopher Hitchens
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““It is supposed to be an axiom of "Western" civilization that the individual, or the truth, may not be sacrificed to hypothetical benefits such as "order.””

Christopher Hitchens

About This Quote

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

Societies often claim to protect liberty, yet they may sacrifice individual truth for the sake of order.

In simple terms: Freedom can be compromised by the desire for stability.

Key Takeaway

Question the trade‑off between truth and order.

Themes

politics philosophy civil liberty

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

essay argumentative

When to use this quote

  • government policy
  • community standards
  • personal belief

Key Concepts

social contract ethical dilemmas

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is it ever justified to suppress truth for stability?
  • How can societies balance individual truth with collective safety?
A Different Perspective

Order can become a justification for oppression.

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