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Whenever our ethnic or national prejudices are aroused, in…

“Whenever our ethnic or national prejudices are aroused, in times of scarcity, during challenges to national self esteem or nerve, when we agonize about our diminished cosmic place and purpose, or when fanaticism is bubbling up around us - then, habits of thought familiar from ages past reach for…” quote by Carl Sagan
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“Whenever our ethnic or national prejudices are aroused, in times of scarcity, during challenges to national self esteem or nerve, when we agonize about our diminished cosmic place and purpose, or when fanaticism is bubbling up around us - then, habits of thought familiar from ages past reach for the controls.”

Carl Sagan

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Prejudices resurface during scarcity or crisis, reviving old, harmful thought patterns.

In simple terms: Crises trigger old biases.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge bias in tough times.

Themes

prejudice scarcity crisis

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • economic downturns
  • political turmoil
  • environmental disasters

Key Concepts

psychology social dynamics history

Questions to Reflect On

  • What triggers your biases?
  • How can you counteract them?
A Different Perspective

Biases can be deeply ingrained and resistant to change.

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