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It has been said that he who was the first to abuse his…

“It has been said that he who was the first to abuse his fellow-man instead of knocking out his brains without a word, laid thereby the basis of civilisation.” quote by John Hughlings Jackson
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“It has been said that he who was the first to abuse his fellow-man instead of knocking out his brains without a word, laid thereby the basis of civilisation.”

John Hughlings Jackson

About This Quote

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

Violence against others, even without physical harm, laid the foundation of civilization, suggesting aggression shapes societal structures.

In simple terms: Early aggression contributed to civilization's development.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the role of conflict in societal evolution.

Themes

civilization conflict human nature

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical historical

When to use this quote

  • warfare
  • colonialism
  • social hierarchies
  • legal systems

Key Concepts

anthropology history ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is aggression essential for progress?
  • Can peace replace conflict in building societies?
A Different Perspective

Violence also causes suffering and regression.

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