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[T]he direction of society has been taken over by a type…

“[T]he direction of society has been taken over by a type of man who is not interested in the principles of civilisation. Not of this or that civilisation but from what we can judge to-day of any civilisation. ...[T]he type of man dominant to-day is a primitive one, a Naturmensch rising up in the…” quote by Jose Ortega y Gasset
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“[T]he direction of society has been taken over by a type of man who is not interested in the principles of civilisation. Not of this or that civilisation but from what we can judge to-day of any civilisation. ...[T]he type of man dominant to-day is a primitive one, a Naturmensch rising up in the midst of a civilised world.”

Jose Ortega y Gasset

About This Quote

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

Society is now dominated by individuals who ignore civilizational values, acting as primitive beings within a modern world.

In simple terms: Modern society is ruled by uncivilized individuals.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge uncivilized attitudes.

Themes

civilization primitive nature modernity

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • education reform
  • community building

Key Concepts

philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we identify genuine civilizational values?
  • What role can education play in countering primitive attitudes?
A Different Perspective

The view may overgeneralize and ignore positive progress.

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