No one in this world has ever lost money by underestimating the intelligence of the great masses of the plain people. Nor has anyone ever lost public office thereby.

Summary

This quote, often attributed to American journalist and satirist H.L. Mencken, suggests that underestimating the intelligence of the general public is a safe and profitable strategy. It implies that pandering to the lowest common denominator and appealing to simplistic thinking tends to resonate more effectively with the masses, rather than presenting complex or nuanced ideas. Furthermore, the quote suggests that politicians can secure and maintain public office by adopting a similar approach. Essentially, it implies that individuals often succeed by exploiting the perceived ignorance or gullibility of the general population.

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