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Ignorance is king. Many would not profit by his…

“Ignorance is king. Many would not profit by his abdication. Many enrich themselves by means of his dark monarchy. They are his Court, and in his name they defraud and govern, enrich themselves and perpetuate their power. Even literacy they fear, for the written word is another channel of…” quote by Walter M. Miller Jr
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““Ignorance is king. Many would not profit by his abdication. Many enrich themselves by means of his dark monarchy. They are his Court, and in his name they defraud and govern, enrich themselves and perpetuate their power. Even literacy they fear, for the written word is another channel of communication that might cause their enemies to become united. Their weapons are keen-honed, and they use them with skill. They will press the battle upon the world when their interests are threatened, and the violence which follows will last until the structure of society as it now exists is leveled to rubble, and a new society emerges. I am sorry. But that is how I see it.””

Walter M. Miller Jr

About This Quote

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

The passage critiques how ignorance is exploited by those in power, who fear literacy and manipulate society.

In simple terms: Power thrives on keeping people uninformed.

Key Takeaway

Promote education and critical thinking.

Themes

power ignorance control

Mood

cautionary analytical

Type

political social

When to use this quote

  • education reform
  • activism
  • community organizing

Key Concepts

political theory media manipulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies protect literacy?
  • What role does media play?
A Different Perspective

Changing entrenched power structures is difficult.

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