A society struggles to fulfill its best instincts, even as…
“A society struggles to fulfill its best instincts, even as an individual does, and generally makes just as hard going of it. The fight against prejudice is an inevitable process. Man has been warring against his own lower nature ever since he found out he had one, and the battle against intolerance is part of the same old struggle between good and evil that has preoccupied us ever since we gave up swinging from trees.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human societies often fail to realize their highest potentials while individuals succeed, and prejudice persists as an ongoing struggle against innate lower impulses.
In simple terms: Societies lag behind individuals; prejudice is a constant battle.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and confront personal and collective biases.
Themes
prejudice
human nature
societal struggle
good vs evil
Mood
reflective
determined
critical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education reform
- workplace diversity training
- community dialogue
- personal self‑reflection
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can individuals inspire societal change?
- What personal biases are hardest to acknowledge?
A Different Perspective
Prejudice can be deeply entrenched, making change slow and resistant.