Free Thought and Official Propaganda

Free Thought and Official Propaganda | Scientific Temper

Q. Why does Russell plead for a scientific temper in the essay "Free Thought and Official Propaganda"?

Answer: Bertrand Russell’s essay, "Free Thought and Official Propaganda" is an example of a philosophical essay. In his essay, Barton Russell argues for the importance of cultivating a 'scientific temper'. Notably, 'scientific temper' is an approach to the world which is explained by open-mindedness, critical thinking and a willingness to follow the evidence wherever it leads.

The main concern in the essay is the dominance of 'official propaganda'. The primary objective of this 'official propaganda' is the distribution of information and opinions by those who hold positions of power and authority. It may be the objective of maintaining a particular 'political agenda'. Bertrand Russell talks about this as a major threat to free and independent thought. Because it can lead people to uncritically accept the narratives which are presented to them. Rather, it can engage them in their own evidence-based analysis.

Russell argues that the 'scientific temper' is the remedy to this problem. He says that every individual can resist the appeal of official propaganda and think for themselves. In doing so, they can cultivate an approach which is rooted in uncertainty, empiricism and a vow to the pursuit of truth. This requires a willingness to seek out viewpoints. There must be a willingness to change one's mind in the face of compelling new evidence.

For Russell, the risk is very high. He believes that the future of human civilization depends on the widespread adoption of 'scientific temper'. He argues that without it, we risk surrendering to dogmatism, intolerance and the tyranny of those in power. On the contrary, by accepting the values of free inquiry and critical thinking, we can cultivate a more enlightened, democratic and progressive society.

However, Russell’s plea for a 'scientific temper' is the call for intellectual independence. It is courage in the face of powerful forces that seek to control our beliefs. It is a defense of the fundamental human right to think for ourselves. It is also a defense to challenge orthodoxies and to pursue knowledge unfettered by the agendas of those in authority. In doing so, Bertrand Russell lays the groundwork for a free world.

Thus, in "Free Thought and Official Propaganda", Bertrand Russell’s main concern is the purpose of the influence of official propaganda. He notices this as a major threat to freedom of thought and independent critical analysis. Therefore, he argues that 'scientific temper' is a remedy to this official propaganda. It can reveal the thoughts of open-mindedness and the free thinking of an individual.

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