Accounts Quote by Henry David Thoreau
“For if we take the ages into our account, may there not be a civilization going on among brutes as well as men?”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “Civil Disobedience”, 1849
Considers whether brutish beings might also create civilization alongside refined humans.
In simple terms: Brutes may also build societies.
Key Takeaway
Recognize diverse contributors.
Themes
philosophy
human nature
civilization
Mood
thoughtful
speculative
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- historical analysis
- community building
- education
- policy making
Key Concepts
social evolution
anthropology
Questions to Reflect On
- What defines “brutes”?
- Can different groups coexist peacefully?
A Different Perspective
Assuming brutishness excludes civilization is a bias.
