"The fanatic is incorruptible: if he kills for an idea, he can just as well get himself killed for one; in either case, tyrant or martyr, he is a monster"
- Emile M. Cioran
About this Quote
This quote by Emile M. Cioran speaks with the power of fanaticism and its capability to drive people to extreme lengths. A fanatic is somebody who is so devoted to a concept or trigger that they are willing to do anything to support it, even if it means sacrificing their own life. Cioran recommends that this kind of individual is incorruptible, as they are so dedicated to their cause that they will not be swayed by any other impacts. This can be viewed as both a favorable and a negative quality, as it can cause excellent acts of heroism and bravery, but it can likewise result in acts of violence and destruction. Cioran suggests that, despite the outcome, a fanatic is a monster, as they are willing to go to such extremes for their beliefs.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"
"Well, I think any time you delve into this sort of religion, politics, as you well know, you're going to, you know, touch a few nerves. I wasn't - now - and this is the honest truth"
