Part of the reason that the government's fear mongering is succeeding is because so many people are so ignorant, that it is easier for government to frighten people in submission.

The quote by James Bovard highlights his belief that government fear mongering often succeeds because many people are ignorant or uninformed. Bovard, a well-known American author and libertarian thinker, is criticizing how governments can manipulate public opinion by playing on people's fears. According to him, the lack of widespread knowledge and critical thinking makes it easier for governments to instill fear and use it as a tool for control, leading citizens to comply without questioning authority.

Bovard argues that when people are not well-informed or aware of the realities behind government actions, they become more susceptible to manipulation. Governments, he suggests, take advantage of this ignorance by creating exaggerated or fabricated threats, such as fears about national security, terrorism, or other crises, to justify policies that may infringe on individual freedoms or expand government power. The fear of these threats can lead to increased compliance with government measures, even when those measures may not be in the best interest of the public.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Bovard’s political philosophy and his frequent criticism of government overreach and authoritarian tactics. He has written extensively about the dangers of state power and how it often exploits public fear to push through policies that restrict individual liberties. His work reflects a commitment to libertarian principles, advocating for smaller government and greater personal freedom.

Ultimately, Bovard’s words serve as a warning against the dangers of government manipulation through fear. He suggests that an informed, critically thinking public is the key to resisting such tactics and holding governments accountable. The quote challenges citizens to seek out the truth and become more aware of the political processes that influence their lives, so they are not easily swayed by the manipulative tactics of those in power.