Age Quote by Edward Gibbon
“Fashion was the only law, pleasure the only pursuit, and the splendour of dress and furniture was the only distinction of the citizens of Antioch. The arts of luxury were honoured; the serious and manly virtues were the subject of ridicule; and the contempt for female modesty and reverent age announced the universal corruption of the capital of the East.”
About This Quote
Source Historical Work: "The Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire", Volume 2, 1776
Excessive luxury and neglect of traditional virtues lead to societal decay; moral decline is reflected in cultural values.
In simple terms: Luxury erodes virtue.
Key Takeaway
Balance pleasure with responsibility.
Themes
societal decay
culture
morality
Mood
critical
historical
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- urban planning
- policy making
- education
- personal lifestyle
Key Concepts
luxury
virtue
corruption
Questions to Reflect On
- What modern parallels exist?
- How can societies restore balance?
A Different Perspective
Change is slow and resisted.
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