Where ignorance is bliss, ‘tis folly to be wise.” -Thomas Gray, 1742
In this discussion, we will explore the implications of this statement, and the nature of the pursuit of truth and illumination of lies in our world. Are some things not worth knowing? Is the relentless pursuit of truth equivalent to Pandora’s box, bringing disappointment and regret? Or is it unequivocally noble to shine the light of knowledge on all falsehoods? Discussion will use an episode from the series on Netflix ‘black mirror’- episode “the entire history of you” as a backdrop to explore these questions and themes. Viewing is not mandatory, necessary points will be summarized. Wikipedia also houses a comprehensive summary of the episode.
Questions for the breakout group; Nietzsche once wrote, “we have art in order to not perish from the truth.”
– what do you interpret that as?
-Are there things in your life that you learned but ended up regretting?
-Why do you think people perpetuate the phrase “ignorance is bliss”?