It's a curse to have a mind if it is illegal to use it. It's a curse to have intelligence if you are forced to cloak it in a lifetime of wilful stupidity.
In "Blind Faith," Ben Elton explores the struggle of individuals who possess intelligence yet are compelled to hide their true thoughts and capabilities due to societal constraints. The quote reflects a deep frustration over the limitations placed on peoples' thinking, suggesting that being smart becomes a burden when one cannot fully express or utilize that intelligence.
The author critiques a culture that values ignorance over knowledge, highlighting the irony of having a sharp mind while being pressured to conform to simplistic beliefs. This creates a paradox where intelligence feels like a curse rather than a gift, as individuals are forced to endure a life of pretense and superficiality in order to fit in.
