I mean...if I told people what to believe, they’d stop…
““I mean...if I told people what to believe, they’d stop thinking. And then they’d be easier to lie to. And...what if I was wrong?’ ‘So...if you may not decide what is true, and the men of letters may not, who may?’ ‘Nobody. Everybody.’ Mosca looked up at the windows where the jubilant people of Mandelion swung their bells. ‘Clamouring Hour – that’s the only way. Everybody able to stand up and shout what they think, all at once. An’ not just the men of letters, an’ the lords in their full-bottomed wigs, but the streetsellers an’ the porters an’ the bakers. An’ not just the clever men, but the muddle-headed, and the madmen, and the criminals, an’ the children in their infant gowns, an’ the really, really stupid. All of ’em. Even the wicked, Mr Clent. Even the Birdcatchers.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Free expression empowers all voices, preventing manipulation by authorities.
In simple terms: Everyone should be able to shout their thoughts.
Key Takeaway
Protect free speech.
Themes
freedom
expression
democracy
Mood
cautious
optimistic
Type
critical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- public protests
- online platforms
- community meetings
- educational workshops
Key Concepts
political philosophy
social activism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies ensure diverse voices are heard?
- What safeguards prevent misinformation?
A Different Perspective
Noise can drown substantive ideas.