Barbarism Quote by Robert E. Howard
“Barbarism is the natural state of mankind,”
About This Quote
Source Story: Conan the Barbarian, 1932, Pulp Magazine
Human nature is inherently barbaric, suggesting civilization is a thin veneer over primal instincts.
In simple terms: Humans are naturally barbaric.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and temper primal impulses.
Themes
human nature
civilization
violence
philosophy
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- conflict zones
- political unrest
- personal anger management
- competitive sports
Key Concepts
psychology
social contract
ethical theory
Questions to Reflect On
- What structures help maintain order?
- How do we balance instinct and reason?
A Different Perspective
Civilization can suppress but not eliminate barbarism.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
![“[Much] as war attracts me and fascinates my mind with its tremendous situations, I feel more deeply every year . . . what vile and wicked folly and barbarism it all is.” quote by Winston Churchill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e15/winston-churchill-95_barbarism_much-as-war-attracts-me-and-fascinates-m_68452.jpg)
