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Bigot Quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes

“The bigot is like the pupil of the eye, the more light you put upon it, the more it will contract.” quote by Oliver Wendell Holmes
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“The bigot is like the pupil of the eye, the more light you put upon it, the more it will contract.”

Oliver Wendell Holmes

About This Quote

Source Speech: Address to the American Bar Association, 1905

Prejudice shrinks when illuminated, yet often reacts by tightening its grip

In simple terms: Light can expose bigotry, which may cause it to retract

Key Takeaway

Confront prejudice with truth and compassion

Themes

prejudice education human behavior

Mood

reflective serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • classroom discussions
  • policy debates
  • personal interactions
  • media analysis

Key Concepts

cognitive bias social psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we keep the light on without causing backlash?
  • What supportive actions accompany enlightenment?
A Different Perspective

Illumination alone may not change deep-seated bias

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