Ignorance is Bliss

[EXTRAPOLATER]

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:

• 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.
  
  

 

[EXTRAPOLATER]

Can never add after those copy & pastes; formatting super funky.

Just going bananas tonight and needed distraction. Thought it was interesting.

Real grey area on how to play that ignorance card, aye?
I know a few people who are all about, hear no evil.
Some truths hurt, and they're supposed to.
To each their own.

 

[EXTRAPOLATER]

AI Overview


The "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" proverb and its iconic representation with three monkeys originated in Japan. It is believed to have roots in Buddhist teachings and was popularized by carvings at the Tōshō-gū shrine in Nikkō, Japan, dating back to the 17th century. The monkeys are known as Mizaru (covering his eyes), Kikazaru (covering his ears), and Iwazaru (covering his mouth).

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Japanese Origin:
  The proverb and the imagery of the three monkeys are distinctly Japanese.
  
  
• Buddhist Influence:
  It's thought to have been influenced by Buddhist teachings, potentially from China, and is associated with the concept of avoiding negative influences and maintaining moral purity.
  
  
• Tōshō-gū Shrine:
  The famous carvings at the Tōshō-gū Shrine in Nikkō, Japan, are a key element in popularizing the motif.
  
  
• The Three Monkeys:
  The monkeys are named Mizaru (not seeing), Kikazaru (not hearing), and Iwazaru (not speaking).
  
  
• Symbolic Meaning:
  The monkeys represent the idea of not witnessing, speaking about, or listening to evil, which is a way to maintain moral purity by actively avoiding negativity.