I used to have a lot more enthusiasm for rationality--however one defines it--so I have historically had a rather antagonistic relationship with this phrase. It's been annoyingly appearing all over my reality, lately, so I've been forced to slay some more brain cells by reconsidering my stance.
Spoiler alert, some kind of psychological placebo/nocebo effect would be the best evidence in favor of the phrase, which I think is what was originally meant. Just asked google,
Q: what is the origin of the aphorism "ignorance is bliss"?
AI Overview
The aphorism "ignorance is bliss" originated in the 18th century from the English poet Thomas Gray. He used the phrase "Where ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise" in his poem Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College (1742). The saying suggests that not knowing certain things can lead to a more peaceful or happy state than being aware of them.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Spoiler alert, some kind of psychological placebo/nocebo effect would be the best evidence in favor of the phrase, which I think is what was originally meant. Just asked google,
Q: what is the origin of the aphorism "ignorance is bliss"?
AI Overview
The aphorism "ignorance is bliss" originated in the 18th century from the English poet Thomas Gray. He used the phrase "Where ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise" in his poem Ode on a Distant Prospect of Eton College (1742). The saying suggests that not knowing certain things can lead to a more peaceful or happy state than being aware of them.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
- Thomas Gray's Poem:
The specific phrase "Where ignorance is bliss, 'tis folly to be wise" appears in the final stanza of Gray's poem, which reflects on the contrast between the carefree childhood and the sorrows of adulthood.
- Context of the Poem:
The poem explores the idea that knowledge can bring pain and suffering, and that youthful ignorance is preferable to the knowledge of future hardships.
- Meaning of the Saying:
The saying implies that a lack of knowledge can shield one from worries, anxieties, and sorrows that might otherwise be experienced if one were aware of certain facts or situations.
- Later Interpretations:
While the phrase originates from Gray's poem, it has been used and interpreted in various ways throughout history. For example, President Thomas Jefferson also commented on the phrase, questioning why, if ignorance is bliss, more people aren't happy.
- Modern Usage:
The saying continues to be used today, often in situations where someone chooses to remain unaware of something potentially negative or unpleasant.
