Ideology Quote by Norman Cohn
““Beneath the pseudo-scientific terminology one can in each case recognize a phantasy of which almost every element is to be found in phantasies which were already current in medieval Europe. The final, decisive battle of the Elect (be they the ‘Aryan race’ or the ‘proletariat’) against the hosts of evil (be they the Jews or the ‘bourgeoisie’); a dispensation on which the Elect are to be most amply compensated for all their sufferings by the joys of total domination or of total community or of both together; a world purified of all evil and in which history is to find its consummation - these ancient imaginings are with us still.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Myth of the Eternal Return, Norman Cohn, 1971
The quote links modern extremist ideologies to medieval fantasies of a final, decisive battle, showing how ancient myths persist in contemporary politics.
In simple terms: Old myths shape modern extremist visions.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge mythic narratives in politics.
Themes
politics
myth
extremism
history
ideology
Mood
analytical
critical
Type
historical
political commentary
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- education
- media literacy
- policy making
Key Concepts
mythic archetype
collective imagination
totalitarianism
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern movements echo medieval myths?
- How do myths influence political decisions?
A Different Perspective
Myths can oversimplify complex social issues.
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