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Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist…

“Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the too-truthful are condemned to suicide and to madness.” quote by Ford Madox Ford
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““Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the too-truthful are condemned to suicide and to madness.””

Ford Madox Ford

About This Quote

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

Society thrives on a mix of moral and immoral traits; extremes are condemned.

In simple terms: Balance of virtues and flaws sustains society.

Key Takeaway

Accept complexity in humanity.

Themes

society morality diversity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • politics
  • culture
  • ethics

Key Concepts

Existentialism social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What traits are essential for a healthy society?
  • How do we manage conflicting moral values?
A Different Perspective

None; idealizing flaws can excuse harmful behavior.

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