"The worst illiterate is the political illiterate. He hears nothing, sees nothing, takes no part in political life. He doesn't seem to know that the cost of living, the price of beans, of flour, of rent, of medicines all depend on political decisions. He even prides himself on his political ignorance, sticks out his chest and says he hates politics. He doesn't know, the imbecile, that from his political non-participation comes the prostitute, the abandoned child, the robber and, worst of all, corrupt officials, the lackeys of exploitative multinational corporations."
"Those who have had no share in the good fortunes of the mighty Often have a share in their misfortunes."
Source: Bertolt Brecht (1975). “Grove Press modern drama: six plays”, Grove Press
About the author
Bertolt Brecht
Playwright, Poet
Bertolt Brecht was a German playwright and poet known for his innovative contributions to theater, particularly the concept of 'epic theater.'
All quotes by Bertolt Brecht →Same author
More quotes by Bertolt Brecht
"Art is not a mirror held up to reality but a hammer with which to shape it."
"There are men who struggle for a day and they are good. There are men who struggle for a year and they are better. There are men who struggle many years, and they are better still. But there are those who struggle all their lives: These are the indispensable ones."
"He who fights, can lose. He who doesn't fight, has already lost."
"Nowadays, anyone who wishes to combat lies and ignorance and to write the truth must overcome at least five difficulties. He must have the courage to write the truth when truth is everywhere opposed; the keenness to recognize it, although it is everywhere concealed; the skill to manipulate it as a weapon; the judgment to select those in whose hands it will be effective; and the running to spread the truth among such persons."
"Don't expect the theatre to satisfy the habits of its audience, but to change them."