I wouldn't live in a colony like that, myself, for a…
““I wouldn't live in a colony like that, myself, for a thousand dollars an hour. I wouldn't want it next door. I'm not too happy it's within ten miles. Why? Because their soft-headedness irritates me. Because their beautiful thinking ignores both history and human nature. Because they'd spoil my thing with their thing. Because I don't think any of them is wise enough to play God and create a human society. Look. I like privacy, I don't like crowds, I don't like noise, I don't like anarchy, I don't even like discussion all that much. I prefer study, which is very different from meditation-not better, different. I don't like children who are part of the wild life. So are polecats and rats and other sorts of hostile and untrained vermin. I want to make a distinction between civilization and the wild life. I want a society that will protect the wild life without confusing itself with it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker rejects a society he deems intrusive and irrational, preferring a private, orderly life that respects nature without merging with it.
In simple terms: He wants privacy and order, not chaos or noisy crowds.
Key Takeaway
Seek environments that align with personal values.
Themes
privacy
order
nature
society
individualism
Mood
reflective
critical
contemplative
Type
philosophical
social commentary
environmental.
When to use this quote
- urban living
- communal housing
- public policy
- environmental conservation
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
civilization vs. wild
human nature
social contract
environmental ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance personal privacy with societal obligations?
- What role should humans play in shaping nature?
A Different Perspective
His disdain may overlook benefits of community and shared responsibility.