*by Czesław Miłosz "The Captive Mind" is a non-fiction book written by Polish author and poet Czesław Miłosz, published in 1953. The book explores the impact of [[totalitarianism]], specifically [[Communism]], on the intellectual and artistic life in Eastern Europe during the early years of the [Cold War](https://doctorparadox.net/dictionaries/cold-war-dictionary/). The author draws from his own experiences and observations, as well as those of his contemporaries, to examine the psychological and moral struggles faced by intellectuals under an oppressive regime. In the book, Miłosz discusses the concept of "**ketman**," a term borrowed from Persian culture, which he uses to describe the practice of concealing one's true beliefs and feelings in order to survive in a totalitarian society. He argues that this form of intellectual self-[[censorship]] leads to a "captive mind," where individuals betray their values and creativity in exchange for personal safety and career advancement. Miłosz presents portraits of four Polish intellectuals, whose identities are disguised under pseudonyms, to illustrate the different ways they succumbed to or resisted the demands of the communist regime. Through these case studies, he emphasizes the psychological and ethical challenges that individuals face under totalitarian rule, as they struggle to balance personal integrity with the desire for self-preservation. "The Captive Mind" is a powerful critique of [[totalitarianism]] and its dehumanizing effects on society. The book remains relevant today, as it offers valuable insights into the mechanisms of control and manipulation employed by oppressive governments, as well as the internal struggles faced by those living under such conditions. see also: [[dehumanization]], [[World War II Timeline]], [[Communism]]