19th century Quote by Lillian Hellman
“Intellectuals can tell themselves anything, sell themselves any bill of goods, which is why they were so often patsies for the ruling classes in 19th-century France and England, or 20th-century Russia and America.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 1960s, United States
Intellectuals can be easily manipulated by powerful interests, becoming tools for ruling elites across history.
In simple terms: Intellectuals can be used by the powerful.
Key Takeaway
Beware of elite influence.
Themes
power
manipulation
intellectualism
history
politics
Mood
cautious
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
political
historical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- academic research
- media analysis
- activism
Key Concepts
critical theory
elite capture
propaganda
Questions to Reflect On
- How can scholars maintain independence?
- What safeguards protect intellectual integrity?
A Different Perspective
Intellectuals may also resist and expose power, not just comply.
![“. . . Luddites were those frenzied traditionalists of the early 19th century who toured [England] wrecking new weaving machines on the theory that if they were destroyed . . . old jobs and old ways of life could be preserved . . . At certain times in his life each man is tempted to become a…” quote by James A. Michener](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/182/james-a-michener-1627_19th-century_luddites-were-those-frenzied-traditional_76909.jpg)
