Doctor Quote by R. G. Collingwood
““Every one knows that our civilization is in difficulties, and the stupidity of the suggested remedies only indicates the gravity of the disease, for a sick society has to diagnose and cure its own complaint, and the worse the complaint, the wilder the diagnosis is likely to be But no one denies the disease.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Idea of History, 1936
Society’s problems are deep, and the proposed fixes often reveal how serious the issues are; a sick society must diagnose and treat itself, and the more severe the ailment, the more extreme the proposed cure, though everyone acknowledges the problem exists.
In simple terms: Serious problems need self‑diagnosis and realistic solutions.
Key Takeaway
Address issues directly, avoid extreme fixes.
Themes
society
diagnosis
remedies
health
politics
Mood
concerned
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- government reform
- public health
- education reform
- economic policy
- social services
Key Concepts
self‑diagnosis
systemic failure
policy critique
Questions to Reflect On
- What are the real causes of our societal difficulties?
- How can we ensure remedies are proportionate to the problem?
A Different Perspective
Extreme remedies may worsen problems if not based on accurate diagnosis.
