In "A Clockwork Orange" by Anthony Burgess, the quote reflects a critical view of institutions such as government, judiciary, and education. It suggests that these entities, which represent authority and conformity, inherently reject what they perceive as "bad." This rejection is tied to their inability to acknowledge the concept of the self, as they prioritize collective norms over individual identity.

This perspective raises important questions about free will and moral agency. By denying the existence of the self, these institutions overlook the complexity of human nature and the necessity of personal choice, even when that choice leads to wrongdoing. Burgess's work invites readers to consider the implications of a society that strives for order at the expense of individual freedom and responsibility.