Cohesion Quote by Bertrand Russell
““Social cohesion is a necessity, and mankind has never yet succeeded in enforcing cohesion by merely rational arguments. Every community is exposed to two opposite dangers: ossification through too much discipline and reverence for tradition, on the one hand; and on the other hand, dissolution, or subjection to foreign conquest, through the growth of individualism and personal experience that makes cooperation impossible””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Social Problem” (1930)
Rational arguments alone cannot enforce social cohesion; balance discipline with flexibility to avoid stagnation or fragmentation.
In simple terms: Cohesion needs both rules and freedom.
Key Takeaway
Balance order and individuality.
Themes
society
cohesion
individualism
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- policy making
- community building
- education programs
Key Concepts
social contract
balance
risk of ossification
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies stay flexible?
- What safeguards prevent dissolution?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on balance may ignore power dynamics.
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
