Definition Man Quote by Evan Dara
““I would next like to work in anthropology; for here, if I may say so, I believe I have much to contribute-indeed, I believe I am on the verge of substantiating significant advances both theoretical and practical; yes, my inquisitors, I assure you this is true; for I have established, on my own, as an unaffiliated scholar, no less than a new definition of Man- yes, him- one that is easily more rigorous than any heretofore proposed; forget opposable thumbs, disregard use of tools,lay down language capacity or abstract reasoning-those are clearly insufficient; my definition easily surpasses these provisional flouncings in accuracy, comprehensiveness, and elegance; and it is this: man is the animal who pisses where he shouldn't;””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown academic lecture, date unknown
The speaker claims a new, rigorous definition of humanity that focuses on a uniquely human tendency to act in socially inappropriate ways, suggesting this behavior is central to our nature.
In simple terms: Man is defined by his tendency to do socially inappropriate acts.
Recognize that unconventional behavior can reveal deeper truths about humanity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic debate
- anthropology research
- social critique
- personal reflection
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “pissing where he shouldn’t” symbolize about human nature?
- Can a single behavior define an entire species?
The definition may be seen as overly simplistic or provocative, ignoring other complex aspects of humanity.