“In our age there is no such thing as ‘keeping out of politics.’ All issues are political issues, and politics itself is a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred and schizophrenia.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
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Quote
“In our age there is no such thing as ‘keeping out of politics.’ All issues are political issues, and politics itself is a mass of lies, evasions, folly, hatred and schizophrenia.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell argues that politics is inescapable and permeates every aspect of modern life. He suggests that no matter how much individuals may try to distance themselves from political involvement, everything is inherently tied to politics—whether it’s social issues, economic policies, or even personal decisions. Orwell emphasizes that politics, in its current state, is corrupt and dishonest, filled with lies, evasions, and conflicting ideologies. The terms folly, hatred, and schizophrenia highlight the irrationality and disarray that often characterize political systems, making it difficult to engage with them in a straightforward or rational way.
Orwell’s disillusionment with politics stemmed from his experiences with both fascism and Stalinism, as well as his observations of the manipulative nature of political systems. In works like 1984 and Animal Farm, Orwell explores how political ideologies and systems, despite their promises of equality and justice, often lead to oppression, corruption, and the manipulation of truth. The “mass of lies” Orwell refers to is reflective of his broader critique of how political systems distort reality to maintain control, manipulate the masses, and suppress dissent.
This quote is particularly relevant today, in a world where politics is often seen as divisive, polarizing, and manipulative. Whether in the context of partisan politics, media, or global conflicts, it seems almost impossible to escape politics or avoid being affected by it. Orwell’s words challenge us to acknowledge the inevitable nature of politics in our lives, but also to be wary of its potential to distort truth and undermine rational discourse. It calls for critical engagement with politics and a deeper understanding of the power dynamics at play, encouraging individuals to question the political structures and narratives that shape their world.
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