Quote by Andrea Camilleri
““It meant that, today, to enter any place whatsoever – an airport, a bank, a jeweller’s or watchmaker’s shop – you had to submit to a specific ceremony of control. Why ceremony? Because it served no concrete purpose. A thief, a hijacker, a terrorist, if they really want to enter, will find a way. The ceremony doesn’t even serve to protect the people on the other side of the entrance. So whom does it serve? It serves the very person about to enter, to make him think that, once inside, he can feel safe.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Shape of Water by Andrea Camilleri, 2005
The quote critiques superficial security rituals that give a false sense of safety while not actually preventing determined threats.
In simple terms: Security rituals feel safe but often don’t stop real danger.
Key Takeaway
Question the effectiveness of security procedures.
Themes
security
psychology
trust
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
advisory
analytical
When to use this quote
- airport checks
- bank entrances
- jewellery stores
- public venues
- personal safety
Key Concepts
risk perception
social control
institutional trust
Questions to Reflect On
- Do these rituals actually deter threats?
- How can we design security that is both effective and reassuring?
A Different Perspective
Such ceremonies can create complacency, reducing vigilance.
