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Absence Quote by Irving Babbitt

“Inasmuch as society cannot go on without discipline of some kind, men were constrained, in the absence of any other form of discipline, to turn to discipline of the military type.” quote by Irving Babbitt
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“Inasmuch as society cannot go on without discipline of some kind, men were constrained, in the absence of any other form of discipline, to turn to discipline of the military type.”

Irving Babbitt

About This Quote

Source Book: “The Democratic Culture”, 1932

Society relies on military discipline when other forms of order are absent, shaping social structure.

In simple terms: Military order fills gaps in societal discipline.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the role of structured authority.

Themes

discipline society military

Mood

analytical critical

Type

philosophical historical

When to use this quote

  • schools
  • corporate hierarchies
  • government agencies

Key Concepts

social order authority control

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is military discipline always necessary?
  • What alternatives exist?
A Different Perspective

Militaristic discipline can suppress individual freedoms.

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