Art Quote by Bertrand Russell
““The romantic movement, in art, in literature, and in politics, is bond up with this subjective way of judging men, not as members of a community, but as aesthetically delightful objects of contemplation. Tigers are more beautiful than sheep, but we prefer them behind bars. The typical romantic removes the bars and enjoys the magnificent leaps with which the tiger annihilates the sheep. He exhorts men to imagine themselves tigers, and when he succeeds the results are not wholly pleasant.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Impact of Romanticism, 1905
Romanticism idealizes individuals as aesthetic objects, encouraging dangerous self‑identification with powerful but destructive forces.
In simple terms: Romanticism glorifies powerful individuals, leading to harmful outcomes.
Key Takeaway
Beware of glorifying destructive power.
Themes
aism
individualism
danger
selfimage
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political rhetoric
- art criticism
- personal identity formation
Key Concepts
Aesthetic idealism
psychology of power
Questions to Reflect On
- How does romanticizing power affect society?
- Can admiration for strength coexist with empathy?
A Different Perspective
Romantic ideals can justify harmful behavior.
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