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Believe Quote by Chaim Weizmann

“The poor ignorant fellah [Arabic for peasant] does not worry about politics, but when he is told repeatedly by people in whom he has confidence that his livelihood is in danger of being taken away from him by us, he becomes our mortal enemy. . . The Arab is primitive and believes what he is told.” quote by Chaim Weizmann
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“The poor ignorant fellah [Arabic for peasant] does not worry about politics, but when he is told repeatedly by people in whom he has confidence that his livelihood is in danger of being taken away from him by us, he becomes our mortal enemy. . . The Arab is primitive and believes what he is told.”

Chaim Weizmann

About This Quote

The quote argues that a marginalized, uneducated individual is apathetic toward politics until elite persuasion convinces him that his survival is threatened, turning him into an adversary.

In simple terms: Manipulated fear creates hostility.

Key Takeaway

Elite narratives can weaponize insecurity.

Themes

political manipulation social stratification psychology of fear elite influence identity conflict

Mood

cautious skeptical defiant

Type

political sociological cautionary

When to use this quote

  • rural communities
  • political campaigns
  • propaganda efforts
  • social movements
  • authoritarian regimes

Key Concepts

trust perception of threat social hierarchy

Practical Applications

  • targeted political messaging
  • counter‑propaganda education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does fear shape political allegiance?
  • What responsibilities do leaders have in informing the populace?
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