Buddhism Quote by Quentin S. Crisp
“Western progress (from one damned thing to another) seems to be essentially the MO of nowhere fast. But, on the other hand, the don't-set-foot-outside-your-own-village/cave ideal or injunction that you find in Buddhism and even in the Daoism of which I'm fonder, seems . . . defeatist. And more than that, it is in contradiction to what nature actually does. Somewhere, somehow, I feel as if these two opposing principles have to be reconciled.”
About This Quote
Western progress feels aimless, while Buddhist/Daoist ideals seem defeatist; both clash with nature’s drive.
In simple terms: Progress feels directionless; spiritual ideals seem passive.
Key Takeaway
Seek balanced, nature‑aligned growth.
Themes
philosophy
progress
spirituality
nature
contradiction
Mood
contemplative
curious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- personal development
- environmental policy
- urban planning
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
impermanence
interdependence
human ambition
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you reconcile ambition with natural limits?
- What practices help integrate spiritual humility into daily life?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may ignore practical constraints.
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