WE often hear the phrase “Ignorance is bliss”. It seems logical, as what you don’t know, cannot hurt you. It seems sensible, to avoid facing the real issues of life. It is a form of escapism that brings about the temporary comfort of denial. But how long can we bury our heads in the sands?
Where does the idiom come from? After digging deep, I discovered the eighteenth century English poet Thomas Gray, wrote the idealism of “bliss in ignorance” in a phrase. In his poem, On a Distant Prospect of Eaton”, Gray wrote:
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Dr George Lee
Dr George Lee is a consultant Urologist and Clinical Associate Professor whose professional interest is in men’s health. This column is a forum to help men debunk the myths and taboos on men’s issues that may be too “hard” to mention. You can send him questions at askdrg@thestar.com.my
