Ignorance Quote by Thomas M. Nichols
““The relationship between experts and citizens is not “democratic.” All people are not, and can never be, equally talented or intelligent. Democratic societies, however, are always tempted to this resentful insistence on equality, which becomes oppressive ignorance if given its head.””
About This Quote
Source Article: The Atlantic, “Democracy and Expertise”, 2021
Equality of talent is unrealistic; democratic societies risk imposing false equality, leading to ignorance if unchecked.
In simple terms: Equality of ability is false; forced equality can cause ignorance.
Key Takeaway
Recognize diverse abilities, avoid forced uniformity.
Themes
equality
democracy
expertise
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education reform
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Political philosophy
social justice
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies value expertise without elitism?
- What balance should be struck?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on equality may ignore merit.
![“These various remedies, eugenic, educational, ethical, populist and socialist, all assume that either the voters are inherently competent to direct the course of affairs or that they are making progress towards such an ideal. I think [democracy] is a false ideal.” quote by Walter Lippmann](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/908/walter-lippmann-1083_democracy_these-various-remedies-eugenic-education_1303423.jpg)
