The quote discusses the underlying psychological motivations behind various forms of prejudice and discrimination, such as racism, sexism, and fascism. It suggests that these biases stem from a person's fears, vulnerabilities, or anxieties about their own identity and place in society, which they then project onto others to feel more secure or dominant.
At a deeper level, the quote highlights how individuals and societies often use discriminatory practices to manage their internal insecurities. Racism, for example, is not just about disliking people of different races but also involves projecting one's own fears or shortcomings onto them. Similarly, sexism can be seen as a way for men to cope with anxieties related to their masculinity or social status by asserting dominance over women. Fascism takes this concept further into the political realm, where individuals seek to impose control and order on society through legislation as a means of addressing perceived threats to stability and security.
The quote is attributed to Gary Ross, an American screenwriter, producer, and director known for works such as "Pump Up the Volume," "Seabiscuit," and "The Hunger Games: Catching Fire." Ross often explores themes related to social justice and human rights in his films, making him well-suited to offer insights into complex issues like racism, sexism, and fascism.