Connexion Quote by William Ralph Inge
“No word in our language not even "Socialism" has been employed more loosely than " Mysticism ." ... The history of the word begins in close connexion with the Greek mysteries. A mystic is one who has been, or is being, initiated into some esoteric knowledge of Divine things, about which he must keep his mouth shut...”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Mystery of the Word Socialism", early 20th century
Socialism is used loosely, linked historically to mystical, secret knowledge, implying a sacred but hidden meaning.
In simple terms: Socialism is often misused, tied to mystic secrecy.
Key Takeaway
Question the true meaning of political terms.
Themes
politics
language
history
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- political debate
- public policy
Key Concepts
ideology
secrecy
etymology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape political perception?
- Can mysticism coexist with rational politics?
A Different Perspective
The comparison may overstate the word's mystic origins.
![“When the copulative kai ['and'] connects two nouns of the same case, [viz. nouns (either substantive or adjective, or participles), of personal description, respecting office, dignity, affinity, or connexion, and attributes, properties, or qualities, good or ill], if the article [ho], or any of…” quote by Granville Sharp](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/932/granville-sharp-81922_adjectives_when-the-copulative-kai-and-connects-two_949366.jpg)
![“The world of ideas which it [mathematics] discloses or illuminates, the contemplation of divine beauty and order which it induces, the harmonious connexion of its parts, the infinite hierarchy and absolute evidence of the truths with which it is concerned, these, and such like, are the surest…” quote by James Joseph Sylvester](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e72/james-joseph-sylvester-23602_absolutes_the-world-of-ideas-which-it-mathematics_338576.jpg)