Alive Quote by Doris Lessing
“This is a time when it is frightening to be alive, when it is hard to think of human beings as rational creatures. Everywhere we look we see brutality, stupidity, until it seems that there is nothing else to be seen but that--a descent into barbarism, everywhere, which we are unable to check. But I think that while it is true there is a general worsening, it is precisely because things are so frightening we become hypnotized, and do not notice--or if we notice, belittle--equally strong forces on the other side, the forces, in short, of reason, sanity and civilization.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Golden Notebook, Doris Lessing, 1962
The quote warns that pervasive cruelty and irrationality can blind us, yet it reminds us that reason, sanity, and civilization persist beneath the surface.
In simple terms: Even in darkness, rational forces exist.
Key Takeaway
Seek and support reason and humanity.
Themes
civility
reason
humanity
danger
hope
Mood
concerned
reflective
hopeful
Type
critical
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- media consumption
- community building
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we recognize and nurture rational forces in society?
- What actions can counteract the descent into barbarism?
A Different Perspective
It may underestimate the power of systemic oppression that hinders reason.
