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But we are living in a sceptical and, if I may use the…

“But we are living in a sceptical and, if I may use the phrase, a thought-tormented age: and sometimes I fear that this new generation, educated or hyper-educated as it is, will lack those qualities of humanity, of hospitality, of kindly humour which belonged to an older day.” quote by James Joyce
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“But we are living in a sceptical and, if I may use the phrase, a thought-tormented age: and sometimes I fear that this new generation, educated or hyper-educated as it is, will lack those qualities of humanity, of hospitality, of kindly humour which belonged to an older day.”

James Joyce

About This Quote

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

The speaker worries that modern, highly educated people may lose human warmth, hospitality, and gentle humor that characterized earlier times.

In simple terms: Modern education may erode kindness and humor.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate empathy and humor alongside intellect.

Themes

humanity hospitality humor education generational change

Mood

concerned reflective

Type

observational cautionary

When to use this quote

  • teaching empathy
  • community building
  • intergenerational dialogue
  • humor workshops

Key Concepts

social cohesion emotional intelligence cultural continuity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we teach kindness in academic settings?
  • What practices preserve humor in a fast‑paced world?
A Different Perspective

Highly educated individuals may still retain kindness if deliberately nurtured.

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