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Adulation Quote by George Orwell

“Even the humblest Party member is expected to be competent, industrious, and even intelligent within narrow limits, but it is also necessary that he should be a credulous and ignorant fanatic whose prevailing moods are fear, hatred, adulation, and orgiastic triumph. In other words it is necessary…” quote by George Orwell
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“Even the humblest Party member is expected to be competent, industrious, and even intelligent within narrow limits, but it is also necessary that he should be a credulous and ignorant fanatic whose prevailing moods are fear, hatred, adulation, and orgiastic triumph. In other words it is necessary that he should have the mentality appropriate to a state of war. It does not matter whether the war is actually happening, and, since no decisive victory is possible, it does not matter whether the war is going well or badly. All that is needed is that a state of war should exist.”

George Orwell

About This Quote

Source Book: 1984 by George Orwell, 1949

The quote describes a totalitarian regime that demands obedient, limited competence while fostering fear, hatred, and fanaticism, regardless of actual war conditions.

In simple terms: A regime wants loyal, ignorant followers who thrive on fear and war mentality.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and resist manipulative political narratives.

Themes

totalitarianism propaganda psychology war political control obedience fear hatred adulation triumph

Mood

cautious critical defiant

Type

political philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • political analysis
  • education reform
  • media literacy
  • activism
  • community building

Key Concepts

authoritarianism mass manipulation psychological control

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does fear shape political obedience?
  • What can individuals do to break the cycle of fanaticism?
A Different Perspective

Even in peace, the state may perpetuate a war mindset to maintain control.

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