Skip to content

Intolerance Quote by Haruki Murakami

“Narrow minds devoid of imagination. Intolerance, theories cut off from reality, empty terminology, usurped ideals, inflexible systems. Those are the things that really frighten me. What I absolutely fear and loathe. Of course it’s important to know what’s right and what’s wrong. Individual errors…” quote by Haruki Murakami
Download Open image
““Narrow minds devoid of imagination. Intolerance, theories cut off from reality, empty terminology, usurped ideals, inflexible systems. Those are the things that really frighten me. What I absolutely fear and loathe. Of course it’s important to know what’s right and what’s wrong. Individual errors in judgment can usually be corrected. As long as you have the courage to admit mistakes, things can be turned around. But intolerant, narrow minds with no imagination are like parasites that transform the host, change form, and continue to thrive. They’re a lost cause, and I don’t want anyone like that coming in here.””

Haruki Murakami

About This Quote

Warns that narrow, intolerant minds lacking imagination become parasitic, hindering progress and fostering fear.

In simple terms: Closed minds are harmful and block growth.

Key Takeaway

Encourage imagination and open-mindedness.

Themes

imagination intolerance criticism growth freedom

Mood

cautionary thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • political debate
  • academic discourse
  • creative brainstorming
  • personal self‑reflection

Key Concepts

critical thinking creativity social dynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can you take to broaden your perspective?
  • How does imagination counteract intolerance?
A Different Perspective

May underestimate the value of firm convictions.

3.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

More by Haruki Murakami

Explore all 2,930 Haruki Murakami quotes

More Intolerance quotes

Browse all 572 Intolerance quotes