Art Quote by Jane Smiley
“There are five things that societies do: They reproduce; they produce food; they organize themselves in terms of law; they organize themselves in terms of belief; and they make art. Four of them are about conformity, and in these, everything would go more smoothly if people just would shut up and do what they're told. But in art it doesn't work that way.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Social Functions of Art, 2003
Societies focus on conformity in most domains, but art thrives on dissent and individuality.
In simple terms: Art resists conformity, unlike other societal functions.
Key Takeaway
Embrace creativity that challenges norms.
Themes
society
conformity
art
law
belief
production
Mood
thoughtful
inquisitive
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- education curriculum
- community projects
Key Concepts
cultural theory
creative freedom
social structure
Questions to Reflect On
- How can art foster constructive dissent?
- What role should art play in societal progress?
A Different Perspective
Art may be inaccessible to many.
