The word 'truth' itself ceases to have its old meaning. It…
“The word 'truth' itself ceases to have its old meaning. It describes no longer something to be found, with the individual conscience as the sole arbiter of whether in any particular instance the evidence (or the standing of those proclaiming it) warrants a belief; it becomes something to be laid down by authority, something which has to believed in the interest of unity of the organized effort and which may have to be altered as the exigencies of this organized effort require it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Truth is no longer a personal discovery but a tool shaped by authority for collective goals, changing with organizational needs.
In simple terms: Truth becomes a tool of authority, not personal discovery.
Key Takeaway
Question authority and protect independent thought.
Themes
authority
truth
individualism
collectivism
political philosophy
Mood
critical
skeptical
reflective
Type
philosophical
political
analytical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- media analysis
- academic research
- policy making
- activism
Key Concepts
social contract
epistemology
power dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How does authority shape what we accept as truth?
- When should we challenge imposed narratives?
A Different Perspective
It may ignore personal conscience and suppress dissent.