Ignorance Quote by Ruth Ozeki
““Coming at us like this--in waves, massed and unbreachable--knowledge becomes symbolic of our disempowerment--becomes bad knowledge--so we deny it, riding its crest until it subsides from consciousness... "Ignorance." In this root sense, ignorance is an act of will, a choice that one makes over and over again, especially when information overwhelms and knowledge has become synonymous with impotence... If we can't act on knowledge, then we can't survive without ignorance... Ignorance becomes empowering because it enables people to live. Stupidity becomes proactive, a political statement.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “A Tale for the Time Being” by Ruth Ozeki, 2013
When knowledge feels overwhelming and powerless, people may retreat into willful ignorance, using it as a coping mechanism and even a political stance.
In simple terms: Too much knowledge can feel disempowering, leading to deliberate ignorance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when knowledge feels paralyzing and seek actionable insight.
Themes
knowledge
power
politics
coping
willful ignorance
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- activism
- personal decision-making
- mental health
- education policy
Key Concepts
empowerment
information overload
agency
political statement
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance knowledge with actionable steps?
- When does ignorance become a harmful choice?
A Different Perspective
Ignorance can also hinder progress and critical thinking if overused.
