The reason for the slow progress of the world seems to lie…
“The reason for the slow progress of the world seems to lie in a single fact. Every man is born under the yoke, and grows up beneath the oppressions of his age. He can only get a vision of the unselfish forces in the world by appealing to them, and every appeal is a call to arms. If he fights he must fight, not one man, but a conspiracy. He is always at war with a civilization. On his side is proverbial philosophy, a galaxy of invisible saints and sages, and the half-developed consciousness and professions of everybody. Against him is the world, and every selfish passion in his own heart.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human history is hindered by individual selfishness and societal oppression, requiring collective moral effort.
In simple terms: Selfishness stalls progress.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy and collective responsibility.
Themes
philosophy
social critique
human nature
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political activism
- community building
- personal development
Key Concepts
ethics
collective action
inner conflict
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals overcome personal selfishness?
- What role does community play in moral growth?
A Different Perspective
Idealistic view may overlook structural constraints.