Causes Quote by Arundhati Roy
“Nationalism of one kind or another was the cause of most of the genocide of the twentieth century. Flags are bits of colored cloth that governments use first to shrink-wrap people's minds and then as ceremonial shrouds to bury the dead.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 2005, on nationalism and genocide
Nationalism, in its many forms, has driven much of the 20th‑century genocide, using symbols like flags to manipulate and ultimately conceal mass death.
In simple terms: Nationalism fuels genocide; flags manipulate minds and hide death.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how symbols can be used to control thought.
Themes
politics
history
human rights
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
political
When to use this quote
- political rallies
- education curricula
- media analysis
- human‑rights advocacy
Key Concepts
genocide
symbolic manipulation
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- How do symbols shape collective identity?
- When can symbols be reclaimed for peace?
A Different Perspective
Flags can also unite people positively, not just manipulate.
![“Well the first time I performed, my mom was like how she is now when sees me on stage – all red, smiling from ear to ear. So I don’t want to mess up, [be]cause she’s smiling. Seeing my mom happy is kind of like an overwhelming feeling.” quote by Chris Brown](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/477/chris-brown-1887_causes_well-the-first-time-i-performed-my-mom-w_4699.jpg)
