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Age Quote by Alfred North Whitehead

“It must be admitted that there is a degree of instability which is inconsistent with civilization. But, on the whole, the great ages have been unstable ages.” quote by Alfred North Whitehead
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“It must be admitted that there is a degree of instability which is inconsistent with civilization. But, on the whole, the great ages have been unstable ages.”

Alfred North Whitehead

About This Quote

Source Lecture: The Concept of Nature, 1925

Civilization experiences instability, yet great ages are marked by such flux.

In simple terms: Instability coexists with progress.

Key Takeaway

Accept change as part of growth.

Themes

philosophy society history

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • political reform
  • cultural movements

Key Concepts

dialectical process civilizational cycles instability theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes an age “great”?
  • How can societies manage instability?
A Different Perspective

Instability can threaten cohesion.

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