Building Quote by Norbert Elias
“Perhaps one could appoint three or four professional people specially concerned with the task of bridge building between the majority and the minority. Bridge building of this kind requires an effort from both sides. It's no good if the majority alone do it. The question is whether there is any response, whether people on the other side of the river also wish to try to build a bridge.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Civilizing Process, 1939
Bridge building between majority and minority requires effort from both sides; success depends on mutual willingness.
In simple terms: Both groups must work together to connect.
Key Takeaway
Foster dialogue and shared effort.
Themes
society
conflict
cooperation
Mood
hopeful
strategic
Type
prescriptive
inspirational
When to use this quote
- community projects
- political negotiations
- organizational change
Key Concepts
social theory
dialogue
Questions to Reflect On
- What incentives encourage minority participation?
- How can power imbalances be addressed?
A Different Perspective
One side may dominate, preventing true partnership.
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