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The effect of the post-Enlightenment project for human…

“The effect of the post-Enlightenment project for human society is that all human activity is absorbed into labor. It becomes an unending cycle of production for the sake of consumption. The modern concept of "built-in obsolescence" makes this clear. The cycle of production and consumption has to…” quote by Lesslie Newbigin
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“The effect of the post-Enlightenment project for human society is that all human activity is absorbed into labor. It becomes an unending cycle of production for the sake of consumption. The modern concept of "built-in obsolescence" makes this clear. The cycle of production and consumption has to be kept going, and the work of the artist or craftsman who aims to create something enduring becomes marginal to the economic order.”

Lesslie Newbigin

About This Quote

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

Modern labor absorbs all activity, marginalizing lasting artistic work.

In simple terms: Labor dominates, sidelining enduring art.

Key Takeaway

Resist commodification, value lasting creation.

Themes

labor consumerism artistic marginalization

Mood

critical serious

Type

theological economic

When to use this quote

  • artistic practice
  • sustainable design
  • activism

Key Concepts

economics philosophy theology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can artists sustain lasting work?
  • What alternatives exist to endless consumption?
A Different Perspective

Economic pressures can limit artistic freedom.

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