On a very rough-and-ready basis we might define an…
“On a very rough-and-ready basis we might define an eccentric as a man who is a law unto himself, and a crank as one who, having determined what the law is, insists on laying it down to others. An eccentric puts ice cream on steak simply because he likes it; should a crank do so, he would endow the act with moral grandeur and straightaway denounce as sinners (or reactionaries) all who failed to follow suit. Cranks, at their most familiar, are a sort of peevish prophets, and it's not enough that they should be in the right; others must also be in the wrong.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Eccentrics act on personal whims; cranks impose their own moral laws on others.
In simple terms: Eccentrics follow personal taste; cranks enforce it.
Key Takeaway
Respect personal quirks, avoid imposing beliefs.
Themes
individuality
authority
social norms
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
observational
When to use this quote
- friend groups
- workplace
- public discourse
Key Concepts
conformity
moralism
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you seen personal taste become moral judgment?
- How can you balance authenticity with respect?
A Different Perspective
Crank behavior can alienate and cause conflict.