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Plutarch Quote by Michael Oakeshott

“When Plutarch says that a city might sooner subsist without a geographical site than without belief in the gods, his words would not have appeared strange to his countrymen at any time.’]” quote by Michael Oakeshott
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““When Plutarch says that a city might sooner subsist without a geographical site than without belief in the gods, his words would not have appeared strange to his countrymen at any time.’]””

Michael Oakeshott

About This Quote

Source Essay: On the Limits of Liberalism, 1965

Belief in the divine is more essential to a city's survival than its physical location.

In simple terms: Faith matters more than geography for a city.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the power of shared belief.

Themes

faith community identity

Mood

reflective philosophical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • political discourse
  • social cohesion

Key Concepts

civic cohesion cultural foundations spiritual significance

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can a city thrive without a unifying belief?
  • What replaces belief in modern societies?
A Different Perspective

Secular societies may thrive without religious belief.

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