Skip to content

Answers Quote by Kenneth E. Boulding

“The organizer who creates roles, who creates the holes that will force the pegs to their shape, is a prime creator of personality itself. When we ask of a man, "What is he?" the answer is usually given in terms of his major role, job, or position in society; he is the place that he fills, a…” quote by Kenneth E. Boulding
Download Open image
“The organizer who creates roles, who creates the holes that will force the pegs to their shape, is a prime creator of personality itself. When we ask of a man, "What is he?" the answer is usually given in terms of his major role, job, or position in society; he is the place that he fills, a painter, a priest, a politician, a criminal.”

Kenneth E. Boulding

About This Quote

Source Book: "The Evolution of Economic Thought", 1962

Roles shape identity; the functions we perform define how we are perceived, making role creation a fundamental act of forming personality.

In simple terms: Roles define who we are.

Key Takeaway

Consider the roles you embody.

Themes

identity role personality

Mood

analytical introspective

Type

philosophical educational

When to use this quote

  • career planning
  • leadership development
  • social interactions

Key Concepts

Sociology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • Which role defines you most?
  • Can you separate self from role?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on roles may ignore intrinsic traits.

4.7 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Kenneth E. Boulding

Explore all 123 Kenneth E. Boulding quotes

More Answers quotes

Browse all 7,843 Answers quotes