It has been said by a distinguished philosopher that…
“It has been said by a distinguished philosopher that England is "usually the last to enter into the general movement of the European mind." The author of the remark probably meant to assert that a man or a system may have become famous on the continent, while we are almost ignorant of the name of the man and the claims of his system. Perhaps, however, a wider range might be given to the assertion. An exploded theory or a disadvantageous practice, like a rebel or a patriot in distress, seeks refuge on our shores to spend its last days in comfort if not in splendour.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
England often lags behind continental Europe in adopting new ideas, allowing foreign theories to find refuge and flourish here later.
In simple terms: England adopts ideas later than Europe.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and support emerging ideas early.
Themes
culture
history
innovation
refuge
Europe
England
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
observation
analysis
When to use this quote
- academic discourse
- policy making
- publishing
- media analysis
Key Concepts
diffusion
cultural lag
intellectual migration
Questions to Reflect On
- How does cultural lag affect progress?
- What can accelerate adoption of foreign ideas?
A Different Perspective
The first may be suppressed by nationalism.