Be suspicious of all those who employ the term 'we' or 'us' without your permission. This is a form of surreptitious conscription. Always ask who this 'we' is; as often as not it's an attempt to smuggle tribalism through the customs.
This quote challenges us to remain vigilant about the language of inclusion and collective identity that is often used to sway opinions or consolidate power. The use of 'we' or 'us' in political discourse or social rhetoric can evoke a sense of unity and shared purpose. While this can foster community and solidarity, it also has the potential to manipulate by making individuals feel part of a group's identity without their explicit consent. The phrase 'surreptitious conscription' highlights how such language can subtly impose allegiance or conformity, sometimes aligning individuals with ideologies or agendas they might not agree with or fully understand. It prompts a critical examination of who truly benefits from this collective identity and whether it serves the interests of an elite or a particular tribe rather than the individual. Moreover, questioning who embody the 'we' refocuses our attention on the dynamics of power, influence, and the potential for tribalism to be exploited as a tool for social or political control. It's an invitation to resist superficial bonds that are often used to divide or manipulate us, and to cultivate awareness of the forces behind such collective labels. Recognizing the tactical use of inclusive language serves as an act of intellectual independence, empowering individuals to think critically rather than be led by the subtle currents of social conformity.
( Letters to a Young Contrarian ) - Christopher Hitchens
