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There is no danger greater for the State than that of…

“There is no danger greater for the State than that of self-styled intellectuals. You would have been better off remaining illiterate. - King Hassan II of Morocco, quoted in the Preface” quote by Marilyn Hacker
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““There is no danger greater for the State than that of self-styled intellectuals. You would have been better off remaining illiterate. - King Hassan II of Morocco, quoted in the Preface””

Marilyn Hacker

About This Quote

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

Self‑styled intellectuals threaten the state more than external foes; ignorance can be a protective shield.

In simple terms: Intellectual arrogance harms society; sometimes ignorance is safer.

Key Takeaway

Beware of elitist rhetoric; value practical wisdom.

Themes

politics power intellectualism societal risk

Mood

cautious critical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • government policy debates
  • educational reform
  • media criticism
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

elitism state security knowledge control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does intellectual elitism affect governance?
  • When is ignorance truly protective?
A Different Perspective

Such statements can justify censorship and suppress critical thought.

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