Civilization Quote by Alija Izetbegović
““Religions, creeds, drama, poetry, games, folklore, folk tales, mythology, moral and aesthetic codes' elements of the political and juridical life affirming a personality's value , freedom and tolerance ; philosophy, theater, galleries , museums, libraries-this is the unbroken line of human culture, the first act of which has been played in heaven between God and man. That is climbing the holy mountain , the top of which remains unreachable' marching through darkness by means of the blazing candle carried by man. Civilization is the continuation of technical rather than spiritual progress in the same way that Darwinian evolution is the continuation of biological rather than human progress. Civilization represents the development of the potential forces that existed in our less developed ancestors. It is a continuation of the natural , mechanical elements-that is, of the unconscious, senseless elements of our existence. Therefore, civilization is neither good nor bad in itself. Man must create civilization , just as he must breathe or eat. It is an expression of necessity and of our lack of freedom. Culture ,on the contrary, is the ever-present feeling of choice and expression of human freedom.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: The Islamic Declaration, 1970
Culture is the expression of human freedom, while civilization is a neutral, necessary continuation of material progress.
In simple terms: Culture = freedom; civilization = necessity
Recognize and nurture cultural freedom amidst material development.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- education reform
- policy making
- community arts programs
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster cultural freedom while advancing material progress?
- What responsibilities do individuals have to protect cultural expression?
Civilization can suppress cultural expression if not balanced with freedom.