“The nationalist not only does not disapprove of atrocities committed by his own side, but he has a remarkable capacity for not even hearing about them.”
- June 25, 1903 – January 21, 1950
- Born in India during the British colonial period
- Author, journalist
- Through his representative works “1984” and “Animal Farm,” he presented sharp criticism of totalitarianism and the abuse of power, greatly influencing contemporary literature and thought.
Quote
“The nationalist not only does not disapprove of atrocities committed by his own side, but he has a remarkable capacity for not even hearing about them.”
Explanation
In this quote, George Orwell critiques the mindset of the nationalist, suggesting that their intense loyalty to their own country or group can blind them to the atrocities committed by their side. Orwell argues that nationalists not only fail to criticize such actions but often actively suppress awareness of them, exhibiting a remarkable capacity for ignorance or denial. This behavior reflects how nationalist ideologies can distort moral judgment, prioritizing national pride or power over ethical considerations. The quote highlights the dangerous consequences of unchecked patriotism, where loyalty to one’s group or country can override a sense of moral responsibility or justice.
Orwell’s own experiences, particularly during the Spanish Civil War and his opposition to fascism, shaped his thoughts on nationalism. He was critical of how nationalist sentiment often led to the justification of violence and cruelty, especially when directed against perceived enemies. In Orwell’s view, ideologies such as nationalism could foster an us-versus-them mentality, where the actions of one’s own side are always justified or ignored, no matter how brutal. This theme appears in many of his works, including 1984, where the state manipulates reality to ensure that citizens remain blind to its own atrocities.
This idea is especially relevant in today’s world, where nationalism can lead to denial or justification of human rights abuses and political violence. In modern conflicts, whether they be wars, ethnic conflicts, or political oppression, the actions of a nation or group can often be excused by its supporters, regardless of the harm caused. Orwell’s quote serves as a warning about the dangers of nationalism when it becomes disconnected from moral accountability, encouraging a form of blind loyalty that can perpetuate injustice and violence.
