Adler Quote by Alfred Adler
“The Adlerians, in the name of "individual psychology," take the side of society against the individual. ... Adler's later thought succumbs to the worst of his earlier banalization. It is conventional, practical, and moralistic. "Our science ... is based on common sense." Common sense, the half-truths of a deceitful society, is honored as the honest truths of a frank world.”
About This Quote
Source Book: "The Individual Psychology of Alfred Adler" edited by Heinz and Rowena Ansbacher, 1956
Adler’s view that society often suppresses individuality, labeling common sense as truth, can be limiting.
In simple terms: Society may ignore individual needs, calling norms truth.
Key Takeaway
Question societal norms and uphold individual dignity.
Themes
society
individuality
psychology
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- education reform
- counseling
- community organizing
Key Concepts
conformity
ethical critique
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance societal expectations with personal values?
- When does conformity become harmful?
A Different Perspective
Common sense can mask systemic bias, hindering progress.
![“You reminded me of a quote that my acting teacher Stella Adler wrote in her book ['The Art of Acting'], which I asked her to sign: "The young actor feels some greatness inside themselves that they want to give back to the world." That resonated with me, but I didn't really understand what she was…” quote by Mark Ruffalo](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/50a/mark-ruffalo-3142_acting_you-reminded-me-of-a-quote-that-my-actin_1375757.jpg)
