I don't envy or much respect people who are completely politicised.

The quote "I don't envy or much respect people who are completely politicised." by Christopher Hitchens reflects his critical stance toward individuals who allow politics to dominate their lives and perspectives. Hitchens, a renowned author and journalist, was known for his sharp wit and skepticism about ideological extremes. In this statement, he expresses a lack of admiration for those who are deeply entrenched in political identities or who prioritize partisan allegiance over more nuanced, independent thought.

Hitchens' view suggests that politicisation—when one's identity or worldview becomes entirely shaped by political ideologies—can lead to a loss of intellectual independence. He often argued that being overly aligned with a particular political party or movement can hinder one's ability to think critically or engage with ideas outside of that framework. By rejecting complete politicisation, Hitchens emphasized the importance of remaining open-minded, questioning authority, and not allowing political affiliations to overshadow personal judgment and rational thinking.

The quote also highlights Hitchens' broader belief in individualism and intellectual freedom. He was often critical of groupthink and dogmatic ideologies, which he felt could stifle creativity, critical thinking, and genuine debate. In his view, being "completely politicised" meant losing the ability to engage in meaningful dialogue across political divides, reducing people to mere representatives of an ideology rather than independent thinkers.

Christopher Hitchens, known for his outspoken atheism and critiques of both the left and right political wings, often challenged conventional wisdom and advocated for free thought. This quote encapsulates his skepticism towards total political alignment and his belief in maintaining intellectual flexibility. Hitchens’ respect was typically reserved for those who could engage in thoughtful, uncompromising discourse rather than those consumed by rigid political loyalties.