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A shambling, hairy, brutish, but probably very cunning…

“A shambling, hairy, brutish, but probably very cunning creature with a big brain behind; so someone, I think it was Sir Harry Johnston, has described Homo Neanderthalensis. To this day we must still use similar terms to describe the soul of the politician. The statesman has still to oust the…” quote by H.G. Wells
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““A shambling, hairy, brutish, but probably very cunning creature with a big brain behind; so someone, I think it was Sir Harry Johnston, has described Homo Neanderthalensis. To this day we must still use similar terms to describe the soul of the politician. The statesman has still to oust the politician from his lairs and weapon heaps. History has still to become a record of human dignity. Finance””

H.G. Wells

About This Quote

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

Compares Neanderthals to politicians, urging dignity and reform in governance.

In simple terms: Criticizes political behavior using historical analogy.

Key Takeaway

Demand ethical leadership.

Themes

politics history ethics

Mood

critical serious

Type

political analytical

When to use this quote

  • government reform
  • historical analysis
  • political critique

Key Concepts

leadership human dignity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What qualities define a dignified leader?
  • How can citizens promote ethical politics?
A Different Perspective

Analogy may be seen as exaggerated.

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