Civilization Quote by Edward W. Said
““Every single empire in its official discourse has said that it is not like all the others, that its circumstances are special, that it has a mission to enlighten, civilize, bring order and democracy, and that it uses force only as a last resort. And, sadder still, there always is a chorus of willing intellectuals to say calming words about benign or altruistic empires, as if one shouldn't trust the evidence of one's eyes watching the destruction and the misery and death brought by the latest mission civilizatrice.””
About This Quote
Source Book: Orientalism, 1978
Empires claim uniqueness and moral superiority while masking their violent actions.
In simple terms: Empires hide their aggression behind lofty ideals.
Key Takeaway
Critically examine claims of moral exceptionalism.
Themes
power
imperialism
hypocrisy
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- media literacy
- historical research
- activism
Key Concepts
civilizing mission
intellectual complicity
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we detect hidden motives?
- What role do intellectuals play in legitimizing power?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic narratives can be persuasive.
