Skip to content

And, see, those metaphors – 'up front' and 'out in the…

“And, see, those metaphors – 'up front' and 'out in the open' – are part of a system we call atavistic purism. AP implies the existence of an ethically perfect state, which not only doesn't exist and never existed, but it's usually used to shore up the prejudices of whoever's making the judgments.” quote by Jennifer Egan
Download Open image
““And, see, those metaphors – 'up front' and 'out in the open' – are part of a system we call atavistic purism. AP implies the existence of an ethically perfect state, which not only doesn't exist and never existed, but it's usually used to shore up the prejudices of whoever's making the judgments.””

Jennifer Egan

About This Quote

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

It critiques the belief in an ideal moral state, calling it a tool for prejudice.

In simple terms: Perfect morality is a myth used to justify bias.

Key Takeaway

Question idealism.

Themes

ethics prejudice philosophy

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • social justice
  • personal belief systems

Key Concepts

atavistic purism moral absolutism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does this view affect judgments?
  • Can we find balanced ethics?
A Different Perspective

May ignore nuanced moral contexts.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Jennifer Egan

Explore all 358 Jennifer Egan quotes

More Life quotes

Browse all 265,290 Life quotes