But society has now fairly got the better of…
“But society has now fairly got the better of individuality; and the danger which threatens human nature is not the excess, but the deficiency, of personal Impulses and preferences.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Society can suppress individuality, and the real threat is a lack of personal drives, not too many.
In simple terms: Too much conformity harms; lack of personal drive also harms.
Key Takeaway
Encourage personal impulses and preferences.
Themes
individuality
society
human nature
Mood
concerned
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- education
- workplace culture
- political policy
- personal development
Key Concepts
liberalism
psychology
social conformity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance personal freedom with social cohesion?
- What personal impulses are being suppressed?
A Different Perspective
Excessive individuality can also be destructive.