Acceptance Quote by David Henry Hwang
“I now know that to do a worthwhile family history I must interpret the past without falling into either demonizing or unquestioning acceptance. . . . As a playwright, what I object to right now is any form of fundamentalism, whether it's nationalistic, religious or ethnic. . . . I think it is ridiculous - and fundamentalist, by the way - to say that I am not changed by the culture around me.”
About This Quote
Source Playwright: The Dance and the Railroad, 2015
Understanding history requires balance, avoiding both demonization and blind acceptance, and rejecting fundamentalist views.
In simple terms: Balance history, reject extremes.
Seek nuanced perspectives.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- family genealogy
- historical research
- playwriting
- public discourse
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you recognize bias in your own view?
- What steps help you stay open‑minded?
Balancing perspectives can be emotionally challenging.