The individual in modern urban society had become 'the…
![“The individual in modern urban society had become 'the public', he said [Kierkegaard], and the predominant characteristic of the crowd, or the masses, was all their noncommittal 'talk'. Today we would probably use the word 'conformity'; that is when everybody 'thinks' and 'believes in' the same…” quote by Jostein Gaarder](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/1cd/jostein-gaarder-676_community_the-individual-in-modern-urban-society-h_2141909.jpg)
““The individual in modern urban society had become 'the public', he said [Kierkegaard], and the predominant characteristic of the crowd, or the masses, was all their noncommittal 'talk'. Today we would probably use the word 'conformity'; that is when everybody 'thinks' and 'believes in' the same things without having any deeper feeling about it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Modern urban life turns individuals into a faceless crowd where conformity replaces genuine belief, leading to empty talk without deep feeling.
In simple terms: People become conformist crowds lacking true conviction.
Key Takeaway
Seek authentic belief over mere conformity.
Themes
conformity
crowd
authenticity
urban life
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- political activism
- social media
- community building
- education
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
social psychology
existentialism
mass culture
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain personal conviction in a conformist environment?
- What steps can foster deeper feeling in public discourse?
A Different Perspective
Conformity can provide social safety, making change difficult.