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Age Quote by Honore de Balzac

“The habits of every animal are, at least in the eyes of man, constantly similar in all ages. But the habits, the clothes, the words and the dwelling of a prince, a banker, an artist, a bourgeois, a priest and a pauper, are wholly dissimilar and change at the will of civilizations.” quote by Honore de Balzac
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“The habits of every animal are, at least in the eyes of man, constantly similar in all ages. But the habits, the clothes, the words and the dwelling of a prince, a banker, an artist, a bourgeois, a priest and a pauper, are wholly dissimilar and change at the will of civilizations.”

Honore de Balzac

About This Quote

Source Book: Human Comedy by Honoré de Balzac, 1830s

Human behavior remains constant across ages, while social status symbols shift with civilization.

In simple terms: People act similarly, but their outward signs differ over time.

Key Takeaway

Recognize core human nature beyond superficial differences.

Themes

human nature social class civilization change

Mood

reflective analytical thoughtful

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • historical analysis
  • social research
  • anthropological fieldwork
  • policy making
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

anthropology sociology cultural evolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you see core human traits beyond status symbols?
  • What social signs change most rapidly?
A Different Perspective

Superficial differences can obscure deeper commonalities, leading to misinterpretation.

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