Famous quote by George Bernard Shaw

"The minority is sometimes right; the majority always wrong"

About this Quote

George Bernard Shaw’s assertion challenges the popular belief that the majority’s opinion is inherently correct. Suggesting that the majority is "always wrong" and the minority "sometimes right", Shaw flips conventional wisdom, encouraging critical examination of collective beliefs and societal norms. The majority, representing the prevalent view or status quo, can be influenced by conformity, tradition, and the human tendency to follow the crowd, rather than individual reasoning or moral integrity. Mass consensus often settles into comfortable patterns, resistant to questioning or innovation, reinforcing prevailing assumptions and sidelining disruptive ideas.

Conversely, minority perspectives can emerge from independence of thought, dissent, or a deeper understanding unclouded by the pressures of conformity. Throughout history, pivotal moments of progress, scientific breakthroughs, ethical reforms, civil rights advances, frequently started with individuals or small groups resisting majority views. Galileo’s heliocentric theory faced overwhelming opposition; the abolitionists were derided in their early fight against slavery. Over time, many once-marginal views have proven enlightened, while the majority's resistance represented an attachment to ignorance, prejudice, or complacency.

Human psychology also plays a role. The phenomenon of groupthink demonstrates how consensus can stifle critical thinking, prompt irrational decisions, and suppress dissent for the sake of harmony. Shaw’s declaration urges skepticism towards popular opinions, highlighting the value of those who challenge collective assumptions. He doesn’t claim all minorities are correct but argues their willingness to stand apart is essential for intellectual and societal growth. By emphasizing the fallibility of the majority, Shaw advocates vigilant re-examination of widely held beliefs and encourages respect for contrarian voices, often the engines of change.

Ultimately, this perspective underlines the importance of individual critical thinking and the potential dangers inherent in majority rule. Progress often depends not on the approval of the many, but on the courage and insight of the few willing to question and defy accepted norms.

About the Author

George Bernard Shaw This quote is written / told by George Bernard Shaw between July 26, 1856 and November 2, 1950. He was a famous Dramatist from Ireland. The author also have 166 other quotes.
Go to author profile

Similar Quotes

John Kenneth Galbraith, Economist