The strongest argument against totalitarianism may be a recognition of a universal human nature; that all humans have innate desires for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. The doctrine of the blank slate... is a totalitarian's dream.

The quote by Steven Pinker, "The strongest argument against totalitarianism may be a recognition of a universal human nature; that all humans have innate desires for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. The doctrine of the blank slate... is a totalitarian's dream," argues that the existence of innate human desires—such as the fundamental need for personal freedom and happiness—serves as a powerful counter to totalitarian regimes. Pinker, a renowned cognitive scientist and author, suggests that recognizing the inherent desires that are part of human nature supports the case for liberty and challenges the idea that human beings can be entirely shaped by external forces, which is often the belief underlying totalitarian systems.

Totalitarianism is a political system where the state exerts absolute control over nearly every aspect of life, often suppressing individual freedoms. Pinker argues that the recognition of universal human nature—the idea that all humans have intrinsic desires for freedom, life, and happiness—is a strong argument against such oppressive systems. These desires, which are part of human nature, form the basis of human rights and the principles of democratic governance, making it difficult for totalitarianism to thrive in societies that recognize and protect these fundamental needs.

Pinker contrasts this with the doctrine of the blank slate, which suggests that individuals are born without any inherent qualities and are instead shaped entirely by external factors like environment and upbringing. This idea, according to Pinker, aligns with totalitarian ideologies because it suggests that human beings can be molded and controlled by those in power. If humans are seen as blank slates, it would be easier for authoritarian regimes to justify their control, as they could claim the right to "shape" individuals as they see fit.

Ultimately, Pinker's quote underscores the importance of understanding human nature as a defense against oppressive regimes. Recognizing that people are born with inherent desires for freedom and happiness challenges the totalitarian notion that individuals can be completely manipulated or controlled. By acknowledging these innate desires, societies can ensure that the principles of liberty and individual rights remain protected, preventing the rise of oppressive rule.