Attraction Quote by Elie Wiesel
“How can one explain the attraction terror holds for some minds — and why for intellectuals? . . .In a totalitarian and terrorist regime, man is no longer a unique being with infinite possibilities and limitless choices but a number, a puppet, with just this difference — numbers and puppets are not susceptible to fear.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, possibly interview, date unknown
The quote suggests that terror can be appealing to some, especially intellectuals, because it reduces individuals to numbers, eliminating fear of uniqueness and limitless choice.
In simple terms: Terror simplifies identity, making fear irrelevant.
Key Takeaway
Recognize how dehumanization can attract certain minds.
Themes
power
control
fear
identity
intellectualism
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- psychological study
- historical research
Key Concepts
totalitarianism
psychology
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- Why might some find comfort in loss of individuality?
- How does fear change when agency is removed?
A Different Perspective
It may overgeneralize intellectuals' motivations.
![“[Chinese] are a huge empire now, you'll soon be - in a few years two billion people in the world. So, you should be more compassionate, more understanding. And above all, you don't need all their trouble.” quote by Elie Wiesel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/751/elie-wiesel-341_billions_chinese-are-a-huge-empire-now-you-ll-soo_28398.jpg)
