Skip to content

One measure of a civilization, either of an age or of a…

“One measure of a civilization, either of an age or of a single individual, is what that age or person really wishes to do. A man's hope measures his civilization. The attainability of the hope measures, or may measure, the civilization of his nation and time.” quote by Ezra Pound
Download Open image
“One measure of a civilization, either of an age or of a single individual, is what that age or person really wishes to do. A man's hope measures his civilization. The attainability of the hope measures, or may measure, the civilization of his nation and time.”

Ezra Pound

About This Quote

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

A civilization’s greatness is measured by the aspirations it nurtures and the hope it sustains.

In simple terms: Hope defines a society’s value.

Key Takeaway

Foster hopeful visions.

Themes

civilization hope aspiration measure

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • national policy
  • education reform
  • community projects

Key Concepts

philosophy social theory human potential

Questions to Reflect On

  • What hopes drive your community?
  • How can hope be made realistic?
A Different Perspective

Hope can be fleeting without concrete action.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Ezra Pound

Explore all 273 Ezra Pound quotes

More Age quotes

Browse all 18,948 Age quotes