The Perils of Indifference Theme of Indifference

Shocker, we know, but indifference is a major theme in a speech called "The Perils of Indifference."

This speech acts as a huge warning about being indifferent to suffering and injustice. Elie Wiesel understood better than most people the consequences of ignoring what's happening around you.

But more than that, he wanted his audience to recognize that being indifferent is not the same as being innocent—in fact, being indifferent or turning a blind eye to bad things makes you part of the problem.

1. Define "indifference" in your own words. Have you experienced indifference in your own life? Have you seen it in the world around you?
2. In line 52, Wiesel says, "Indifference, after all, is more dangerous than anger or hatred." What evidence does he give to support that statement?
3. What is the connection between indifference and humanity, according to Wiesel? Do you agree with him? Why or why not?
4. Wiesel says in line 125 that he's filled with "extraordinary hope" as the world moves toward the new millennium. After all his experiences and all the events he touched on throughout his speech, what gives him so much hope?

According to Elie Wiesel, "indifference" is defined simply as "no difference." But it's actually much more complicated and nuanced, especially when talking about indifference toward human suffering throughout the world.

Elie Wiesel sincerely believes the only way to stop the evils of the 20th century from bleeding into the 21st century is to choose not to be indifferent.