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Achievement Quote by Roger Kimball

“What the historian Elie Kedourie called "the Chatham House Version" - that toxic amalgam of smugness, moral relativism, and cherished feelings of guilt about the achievements of Western civilization - everywhere nurtured the catechism of established opinion.” quote by Roger Kimball
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“What the historian Elie Kedourie called "the Chatham House Version" - that toxic amalgam of smugness, moral relativism, and cherished feelings of guilt about the achievements of Western civilization - everywhere nurtured the catechism of established opinion.”

Roger Kimball

About This Quote

Source Essay: "The Chatham House Version" by Roger Kimball, 2021

The quote critiques a Western mindset that mixes smugness, moral relativism, and guilt, which sustains prevailing opinions.

In simple terms: Western guilt and smugness mask deeper issues, keeping old ideas alive.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and challenge complacent narratives.

Themes

culture morality intellectual history

Mood

critical reflective

Type

cultural philosophical

When to use this quote

  • academic debates
  • media analysis
  • public discourse
  • education curricula

Key Concepts

Western civilization guilt relativism ideology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What fuels the guilt about Western achievements?
  • How can we foster honest self‑critique?
A Different Perspective

Overcoming entrenched beliefs can be socially resistant.

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