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Though they seem at opposite poles, fanatics of all kinds…

“Though they seem at opposite poles, fanatics of all kinds are actually crowded together at one end. It is the fanatic and the moderate who are poles apart and never meet.” quote by Eric Hoffer
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“Though they seem at opposite poles, fanatics of all kinds are actually crowded together at one end. It is the fanatic and the moderate who are poles apart and never meet.”

Eric Hoffer

About This Quote

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

Fanatics and moderates are both extreme, but only fanatics crowd at one extreme, while moderates stay opposite and never intersect.

In simple terms: Fanatics cluster together; moderates stay apart.

Key Takeaway

Recognize extreme views can be similar despite labels.

Themes

extremism psychology politics

Mood

critical analytical

Type

observational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political debates
  • online forums
  • community meetings
  • activist gatherings

Key Concepts

social dynamics identity polarization

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate fanatics from moderates?
  • What drives people to extreme positions?
A Different Perspective

Extremes may still differ in motivations and actions.

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