Education Quote by Kakuzō Okakura
““Asiatic youths are flocking to Western colleges for the equipment of modern education. Our insight does not penetrate your culture deeply, but at least we are willing to learn. Some of my compatriots have adopted too much of your customs and too much of your etiquette, in the delusion that the acquisition of stiff collars and tall silk hats comprised the attainment of your civilisation. Pathetic and deplorable as such affectations are, they evince our willingness to approach the West on our knees.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Asian Mind, 1909
Western education is sought, but cultural identity can be lost in imitation.
In simple terms: Western learning can erode native culture.
Key Takeaway
Preserve identity while learning.
Themes
culture
education
colonialism
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
cultural
When to use this quote
- students studying abroad
- policy making
- cultural preservation
Key Concepts
identity
cultural exchange
Questions to Reflect On
- What balance should be struck?
- How can cultures learn without losing self?
A Different Perspective
Adopting foreign customs may cause loss of self.
