Books Quote by Anthony de Jasay
“Karl Popper once advised a student that if he wanted to reap intellectual fame, he should write endless pages of obscure, high-flown prose that would leave the reader puzzled and cowed. He should then here and there smuggle in a few sensible, straightforward sentences all could understand. The reader would feel that since he has grasped this part, he must have also grasped the rest. He would then congratulate himself and praise the author.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Myth of the Rational Voter, Anthony de Jasay, 2001
Popper suggests that writers can manipulate readers by mixing obscure prose with occasional clarity, leading readers to overestimate their understanding of the whole work.
In simple terms: Mixing confusing and clear writing tricks readers into thinking they grasp the whole.
Key Takeaway
Beware of selective clarity; seek consistent understanding.
Themes
manipulation
communication
critical thinking
Mood
skeptical
analytical
Type
critical
educational
When to use this quote
- academic reading
- political analysis
- media consumption
- educational evaluation
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
rhetoric
authorial intent
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you question unclear passages or accept them as insight?
- How does selective clarity affect trust in an author?
A Different Perspective
The strategy relies on readers not questioning the obscure parts, which can perpetuate misinformation.
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