Most people believe not so much in truth as in things they wish were the truth. Their eyes may be wide open, but they don't see a thing. Tricking them is as easy as twisting a baby's arm.
In Haruki Murakami's novel "1Q84," the quote suggests that people's perception of reality is heavily influenced by their desires rather than objective truth. Many individuals prefer to believe in comforting illusions, which makes them easily manipulated, as they ignore the facts that contradict their wishes. This creates a disconnect between their expectations and the actual world around them.
The metaphor comparing the gullibility of adults to that of a baby highlights the ease with which people can be deceived. Despite having the ability to see and analyze their surroundings, their biases cloud their judgment, leading them to overlook important truths. This commentary on human nature reflects a deeper philosophical inquiry into the nature of belief, illusion, and the complexities of modern existence.