We are citizens of an age, as well as of a State; and if…
“We are citizens of an age, as well as of a State; and if it is held to be unseemly, or even inadmissible, for a man to cut himself off from the customs and manners of the circle in which he lives, why should it be less of a duty, in the choice of his activity, to submit his decision to the needs and the taste of his century?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
One must balance personal identity with societal expectations, aligning actions with the era’s needs while staying true to self.
In simple terms: Balance personal duty with societal demands.
Key Takeaway
Act according to both self and time.
Themes
responsibility
society
individualism
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- public service
- career choices
- civic engagement
Key Concepts
ethical duty
cultural context
self‑realization
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you honor your era’s needs without losing self?
- When is it right to challenge prevailing customs?
A Different Perspective
Societal pressure may suppress authentic expression.