Character Quote by Kakuzō Okakura
““Our standards of morality are begotten of the past needs of society, but is society to remain always the same? The observance of communal traditions involves a constant sacrifice of the individual to the state. Education, in order to keep up the mighty delusion, encourages a species of ignorance. People are not taught to be really virtuous, but to behave properly. We are wicked because we are frightfully self-conscious. We nurse a conscience because we are afraid to tell the truth to others; we take refuge in pride because we are afraid to tell the truth to ourselves. How can one be serious with the world when the world itself is so ridiculous!””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Book of Tea, 1906
Morality shifts with society; education often teaches conformity over true virtue, leading to self‑deception.
In simple terms: Society shapes morals, but true virtue is rare.
Key Takeaway
Question norms.
Themes
ethics
education
individualism
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- school curricula
- personal reflection
- activism
Key Concepts
social constructivism
psychology
existentialism
Questions to Reflect On
- What personal values conflict with societal expectations?
- How can education foster authentic virtue?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑rooted cultural habits is difficult.
