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Doctrine that eliminates or even obscures the function of…

“Doctrine that eliminates or even obscures the function of choice of values and enlistment of desires and emotions in behalf of those chosen weakens personal responsibility for judgment and for action. It thus helps create the attitudes that welcome and support the totalitarian state.” quote by John Dewey
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“Doctrine that eliminates or even obscures the function of choice of values and enlistment of desires and emotions in behalf of those chosen weakens personal responsibility for judgment and for action. It thus helps create the attitudes that welcome and support the totalitarian state.”

John Dewey

About This Quote

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

The doctrine undermines individual agency by removing personal choice and emotional involvement, thereby weakening accountability and fostering acceptance of authoritarian rule.

In simple terms: It erodes personal responsibility and supports totalitarianism.

Key Takeaway

Loss of agency enables oppression.

Themes

individual autonomy responsibility authoritarianism psychology of choice moral agency

Mood

concerned critical reflective

Type

philosophical political warning

When to use this quote

  • political education
  • mass propaganda
  • state indoctrination
  • civic disengagement

Key Concepts

choice desire emotion judgment action

Practical Applications

  • critical thinking curricula
  • civic responsibility programs

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal choice affect political freedom?
  • What safeguards can protect agency against ideological control?
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