Ask AI: He who controls the past controls the future. He who controls the present controls the past. Explain in a kinda long explanation.

This quote comes from George Orwell's dystopian novel, "1984", and reflects on the control and manipulation of information or history under totalitarian regimes. "He who controls the past controls the future" signifies the importance and power of controlling history or historical narratives to influence the future. If one can manipulate how the past is understood or remembered, then they can shape how people approach and think about the future. Instead of learning from previous mistakes or successes, people are swayed by the distorted view of the past and thus, their future actions are guided accordingly. For instance, if past conflicts are presented only from one perspective, it may lead to a potential future conflict because the lessons learned from that conflict are skewed. This underlines the fact that history, as a chronicle of past events, plays an influential role in future decision-making processes. So, those who can control or tweak past narratives effectively hold a grip on the direction the future might take. "He who controls the present controls the past" implies that those in power now have the ability to manipulate the past. Being in control of the present means having access to resources and platforms to influence ways in which history is recalled and taught. For example, in Orwell's "1984", the government continuously alters historical records to fit its narrative, reshaping the citizens' understanding of their past and thus, their present reality. This part of the quote emphasizes how authority can control and manipulate history, sometimes rewriting it completely, to suit its needs, propaganda and ideologies. Controlling the present, therefore, leads to controlling the past, establishing a firm grip on what is remembered and what is forgotten which in turn shapes how the future is perceived and acted upon. In essence, the quote reflects the power of controlling information and narrative in shaping societal perceptions, actions, and future directions. From a broader perspective, it also underscores the importance of critical thinking, questioning of authority, and the need for objectivity in understanding history.