Civilization Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“No community has ever yet passed beyond the initial phases in which its pugnacity and fanaticism enabled it to found a nation, and its cupidity to establish and develop a commercial civilization.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: The Man and the Superman, 1903
Early societies often rely on aggression, zeal, and greed to form nations and economies, but these traits are unsustainable for long‑term progress.
In simple terms: Early nations grew through conflict and greed, which later hinder growth.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and move beyond aggressive foundations.
Themes
politics
history
economics
human nature
societal development
Mood
reflective
critical
serious
Type
analytical
historical
When to use this quote
- political analysis
- education
- policy making
- community building
- economic planning
Key Concepts
aggression
fanaticism
greed
nation building
civilization
sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies transition from aggression to cooperation?
- What mechanisms curb greed in modern economies?
A Different Perspective
These traits can cause internal conflict and moral decay if not reined in.
