Prudent ignorance

In his memoir 'Hitch 22', Christopher Hitchens contemplates the notion of blissful ignorance, expressing a sense of envy towards those who are able to live in a state of unawareness. He recognises the allure of a life untouched by the awareness of harsh realities and the complexities of the world. While acknowledging the tranquillity that ignorance can bring, Hitchens also acknowledges the inherent limitations and potential dangers of such a mindset. He perceives blissful ignorance as a gift that some possess, often wishing he could experience the sanctuary it provides, even for a fleeting moment.

Sometimes, it's best not to know, because even when you know, it doesn't matter anyway. Ignorance is bliss. If you come to know that you'll meet a serious accident after a year, you'll constantly live in the penumbra of fear and apprehension, and may even expedite the occurrence of the grim event. The bliss of ignorance is preferred over the agony of knowledge. Ignoramuses can sometimes be the most powerful beings because they can easily disregard things that affect their mental health. The more you know, the bleaker things can get.

English intellectual poet Alexander Pope wrote, 'Heav'n from all creatures hides the book of Fate/ All but the page prescrib'd, their present state.' Knowledge or awareness of the known moment you breathe in is far better than being ignorant of the next unknown moment. But at the same time, it's imperative to understand that ignorance of all things is not desirable. Ignorance of a few things or a selective ignorance will help us sleep sans worries. This is also known as prudent ignorance when you cautiously and consciously remain ignorant of things and phenomena that might upset your apple cart.