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Madness Quote by Ford Madox Ford

“Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the too-truthful are condemned to suicide and to madness.” quote by Ford Madox Ford
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““Society must go on, I suppose, and society can only exist if the normal, if the virtuous, and the slightly deceitful flourish, and if the passionate, the headstrong, and the too-truthful are condemned to suicide and to madness.””

Ford Madox Ford

About This Quote

Source Novel: The Good Soldier, 1915

Society thrives on a mix of moral and immoral traits; extremes are condemned.

In simple terms: Balance of virtues and flaws sustains society.

Key Takeaway

Accept complexity in humanity.

Themes

society morality diversity

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • politics
  • culture
  • ethics

Key Concepts

Existentialism social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • What traits are essential for a healthy society?
  • How do we manage conflicting moral values?
A Different Perspective

None; idealizing flaws can excuse harmful behavior.

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