Enemy Quote by Henrik Ibsen
“The worst enemy of truth and freedom in our society is the compact majority.”
About This Quote
Source Play: An Enemy of the People, Henrik Ibsen, 1882
Society often suppresses truth when the majority prefers comfort over honesty, threatening freedom.
In simple terms: Majorities can silence truth and endanger liberty.
Key Takeaway
Guard truth, even against popular opinion.
Themes
freedom
truth
society
majority
courage
Mood
concerned
determined
critical
Type
political
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political debate
- journalism
- whistleblowing
- community decision-making
- education reform
Key Concepts
democracy
social pressure
ethical responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you confront popular falsehoods?
- When is majority opinion justified?
A Different Perspective
Majorities may also protect minorities, so dissent must be balanced with dialogue.
