“Sometimes the first duty of intelligent men is the restatement of the obvious.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
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Quote
“Sometimes the first duty of intelligent men is the restatement of the obvious.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell suggests that there are moments when the most important task for intelligent or thoughtful people is to reaffirm or restate ideas that may seem self-evident, but have been forgotten, ignored, or obscured by the complexities of modern life, ideologies, or political agendas. While intelligence is often associated with the discovery of new, complex ideas, Orwell emphasizes that sometimes the most essential role of clear thinking is to remind others of basic truths that are often taken for granted or lost in over-complicated discourse. The “obvious” may be something like justice, freedom, or honesty, which, while apparent in theory, can become distorted or undermined by political, social, or ideological forces.
Orwell’s use of this idea is rooted in his belief that intellectuals and writers have a responsibility to challenge propaganda and to reaffirm truths that may be overlooked or manipulated by those in power. In works like 1984, Orwell explores how language manipulation and doublethink obscure the most fundamental aspects of human reality, such as freedom and truth. Restating the obvious, in his view, is a necessary act of resistance against the forces that twist and conceal essential truths for political or ideological gain.
This quote is still relevant today, especially in a world where misinformation, competing narratives, and overcomplicated debates often cloud simple but crucial truths. Whether in politics, media, or social movements, the restatement of the obvious—such as the importance of equality, democracy, or basic human rights—can be a powerful tool for reorienting public discourse and ensuring that essential values are not lost in the noise. Orwell’s message encourages us to remain rooted in clarity and to be unafraid to bring attention to truths that may be neglected but are crucial to maintaining a healthy society.
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