1,000 More Fools

Bad Religion's song "1,000 More Fools" is a scathing critique of societal complacency and blind faith. The lyrics open with a reference to the biblical phrase, "the meek shall reign on earth," juxtaposed with the harsh reality of suffering, as seen in the eyes of a starving baby. This stark contrast sets the tone for the song, highlighting the disparity between religious promises and the grim realities of the world. The mention of "inchoate beatitude" and "the Lord of the Flies" further emphasizes the chaotic and often hypocritical nature of human existence, where innocence and savagery coexist.

The chorus, with its repeated line, "1000 more fools are being born every fucking day," underscores the artist's frustration with the perpetuation of ignorance and blind obedience. The use of the word "fools" suggests a disdain for those who unquestioningly follow societal norms and religious dogma without critical thought. The imagery of "kaleidoscoping images of love on the way" hints at the fleeting and often illusory nature of hope and salvation, urging listeners to question the validity of what they are being told.

In the second verse, the song delves into the pervasive influence of media and technology, with "microwave transmissions" symbolizing the constant bombardment of information that keeps the masses docile and compliant. The phrase "the masses are obsequious, contented in their sleep" paints a picture of a society that is willingly ignorant, lulled into a false sense of security by the very systems that control them. The song's overall message is a call to wake up and recognize the manipulation and deceit that pervade modern life, urging individuals to think critically and resist the forces that seek to keep them in a state of complacency.