Atrocities Quote by Arthur Koestler
“Indeed, the ideal for a well-functioning democratic state is like the ideal for a gentleman's well-cut suit it is not noticed. For the common people of Britain, Gestapo and concentration camps have approximately the same degree of reality as the monster of Loch Ness. Atrocity propaganda is helpless against this healthy lack of imagination.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Ghost in the Machine, 1967
Koestler argues that an ideal democratic state, like a perfect suit, goes unnoticed, while absurdities are treated as real threats.
In simple terms: Ideal systems are invisible; absurdities are exaggerated.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and value unnoticed excellence.
Themes
politics
society
perception
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government policy
- media analysis
- civic education
- public debate
- cultural criticism
Key Concepts
invisibility of excellence
propaganda
public perception
Questions to Reflect On
- What unnoticed qualities make a democracy effective?
- How does propaganda shape our sense of reality?
A Different Perspective
People often ignore subtle strengths, focusing on sensational myths.
