Absent Quote by C. S. Lewis
“In any fairly large and talkative community such as a university there is always the danger that those who think alike should gravitate together where they will henceforth encounter opposition only in the emasculated form of rumour that the outsiders say thus and thus. The absent are easily refuted, complacent dogmatism thrives, and differences of opinion are embittered by the group hostility. Each group hears not the best, but the worst, that the other group can say.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Weight of Glory, C. S. Lewis, 1942
Groups tend to isolate similar thinkers, fostering echo chambers and hostility toward outsiders, which hampers genuine discourse.
In simple terms: Like groups create echo chambers and conflict.
Key Takeaway
Seek diverse perspectives actively.
Themes
social dynamics
groupthink
communication
conflict
Mood
thoughtful
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- classrooms
- online forums
- political parties
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social identity theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you bridge divided groups?
- What role does curiosity play in dialogue?
A Different Perspective
Homogeneity can limit innovation and understanding.
