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Ideological Quote by John Carroll

“The ugliness of the ideological lies in its legitimating the pursuit of the trivial.” quote by John Carroll
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“The ugliness of the ideological lies in its legitimating the pursuit of the trivial.”

John Carroll

About This Quote

Source Essay: The New York Review of Books, 2015

The quote warns that ideology can make meaningless pursuits seem important, masking their triviality.

In simple terms: Ideology can make trivial things seem important.

Key Takeaway

Question the significance behind ideological claims.

Themes

politics philosophy meaning triviality

Mood

critical reflective

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • academic debate
  • media analysis
  • personal decision making

Key Concepts

legitimacy ideological critique value assessment

Questions to Reflect On

  • What claims do you accept without scrutiny?
  • How does ideology shape your priorities?
A Different Perspective

Ideology may also provide social cohesion despite trivial focus.

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