Ancient greece Quote by Christopher Hitchens
““Periclean Greeks employed the term idiotis , without any connotation of stupidity or subnormality, to mean simply 'a person indifferent to public affairs.' Obviously, there is something wanting in the apolitical personality. But we have also come to suspect the idiocy of politicization—of the professional pol and power broker. The two idiocies make a perfect match, with the apathy of the first permitting the depredations of the second.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: God Is Not Great, Christopher Hitchens, 2007
Indifference to civic duty enables corrupt power to thrive; both apathy and self‑interest are dangerous.
In simple terms: Being apathetic lets corrupt leaders act unchecked.
Key Takeaway
Engage in community and hold leaders accountable.
Themes
civic duty
politics
corruption
apathy
power
Mood
concerned
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- voting
- community organizing
- public debate
- watchdog journalism
Key Concepts
social contract
ethical responsibility
political philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal apathy affect societal health?
- What steps can individuals take to counter political corruption?
A Different Perspective
Apathy can be a coping mechanism for disillusionment.
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