Imaginary Quote by Christopher Isherwood
“A minority is only thought of as a minority when it constitutes some kind of threat to the majority, real or imaginary. And no threat is ever quite imaginary.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Good Omens? Actually from Isherwood's essay collection, 1975
Minorities are labeled as threats when majority feels insecure; perceived threats can be real or imagined
In simple terms: Majorities label minorities as threats based on fear
Key Takeaway
Question assumptions about threat and majority-minority dynamics
Themes
social psychology
minority rights
power dynamics
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community relations
- media framing
- education curricula
Key Concepts
threat perception
social identity
majority bias
Questions to Reflect On
- What evidence supports or refutes perceived threats?
- How can societies reduce minority‑majority tension?
A Different Perspective
Labeling can exacerbate division and prejudice
