Action Quote by Jacques Barzun
“On the one hand, society needs a common faith and vigorous institutions with the power to coerce; and on the other, the individual as a human soul or as the bearer of a new and possibly saving heresy, must be free. It is difficult enough to reconcile these two needs, but the problem holds another hazard: the need of action under the pressure of time.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Crisis of the Modern World", 1955
Society requires shared beliefs and strong institutions, yet individuals must retain freedom to challenge norms, especially under time pressure.
In simple terms: Society needs order and freedom, but time pressures complicate balancing them.
Key Takeaway
Balance institutional strength with personal liberty, especially when urgency arises.
Themes
society
individual freedom
institutions
time pressure
Mood
reflective
urgent
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
political
motivational
When to use this quote
- policy making
- activism
- organizational leadership
- personal decision making
Key Concepts
political theory
social contract
humanism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can institutions foster freedom without losing authority?
- What actions can individuals take when time is limited?
A Different Perspective
Balancing collective authority and personal autonomy can be difficult in crises.
