Age Quote by Lascelles Abercrombie
“The balance of private good and general welfare is at the bottom of civilized morals but the morals of the Heroic Age are founded on individuality, and on nothing else.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Heroic Age, Lascelles Abercrombie, 1915
The quote contrasts communal ethics of civilization with the individualistic ethos of heroic times, suggesting morality shifts from collective welfare to personal glory.
In simple terms: Civilized morals value community; heroic morals value the individual.
Key Takeaway
Recognize when personal ambition overrides collective good.
Themes
morality
individualism
civilization
heroism
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political leadership
- business decisions
- team projects
- public policy
Key Concepts
ethical philosophy
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance personal ambition with societal needs?
- When does heroism become selfish?
A Different Perspective
Emphasizing individuality can neglect social responsibility and cohesion.
![“In our opinion, there is no public good other than one that assures the citizens' private good; we judge institutions from the point of view of the concrete opportunities they give to individuals. But neither do we confuse the idea of private interest with happiness[...]. We cannot really know…” quote by Simone de Beauvoir](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/1c8/simone-de-beauvoir-407_democracy_in-our-opinion-there-is-no-public-good-o_786424.jpg)
