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Being real Quote by Jeff Baena

“I think one of the bigger issues with modern-day people is that we don't give enough credit to people from history as being real. We almost treat them as these rarified beings that didn't exist the way that we do with emotions and urges and drives.” quote by Jeff Baena
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“I think one of the bigger issues with modern-day people is that we don't give enough credit to people from history as being real. We almost treat them as these rarified beings that didn't exist the way that we do with emotions and urges and drives.”

Jeff Baena

About This Quote

Source Interview: “The Art of Storytelling” podcast, 2020

People often view historical figures as distant myths, ignoring their human emotions and motivations.

In simple terms: History feels distant, but people were real.

Key Takeaway

Remember that past individuals had the same feelings as us.

Themes

history humanity empathy

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • teaching
  • media
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

psychology social perception education

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we humanize historical narratives?
  • What impact does this have on our self‑understanding?
A Different Perspective

Idealizing the past can distort learning.

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