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Appearance Quote by Alasdair MacIntyre

“[M]odern society is indeed often, at least in surface appearance, nothing but a collection of strangers, each pursuing his or her own interests under minimal constraints.” quote by Alasdair MacIntyre
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“[M]odern society is indeed often, at least in surface appearance, nothing but a collection of strangers, each pursuing his or her own interests under minimal constraints.”

Alasdair MacIntyre

About This Quote

Source Book: After Virtue, Alasdair MacIntyre, 1981

Modern life often feels like isolated individuals chasing personal goals with little shared constraint.

In simple terms: Society feels like strangers pursuing personal interests.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and build shared values.

Themes

individualism alienation social cohesion

Mood

reflective critical

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • community building
  • policy design
  • urban planning
  • education reform

Key Concepts

philosophy political theory ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we foster genuine connections?
  • What structures encourage collective responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Shared norms are hard to establish without common goals.

2.7 out of 5 (7 ratings)

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