"Other people have a nationality. The Irish and the Jews have a psychosis"
- Brendan Behan
About this Quote
This quote by Brendan Behan is a commentary on the unique identity of the Irish and Jewish individuals. Behan is suggesting that, unlike other nationalities, the Irish and Jews have a shared psychosis, or a shared frame of mind. This could be translated as a reference to the shared history of oppression and persecution that both groups have actually experienced throughout history. Behan is suggesting that this shared experience has actually created an unique bond in between the two groups, and that this bond is stronger than any other nationwide identity. This quote is a tip of the importance of understanding and appreciating the distinct identity of various cultures and nationalities. It is also a tip of the importance of recognizing the shared experiences of different groups, and the importance of solidarity in the face of injustice.