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Alarms Quote by Samuel Johnson

“Those who have past much of their lives in this great city, look upon its opulence and its multitudes, its extent and variety, with cold indifference; but an inhabitant of the remoter parts of the kingdom is immediately distinguished by a kind of dissipated curiosity, a busy endeavour to divide…” quote by Samuel Johnson
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“Those who have past much of their lives in this great city, look upon its opulence and its multitudes, its extent and variety, with cold indifference; but an inhabitant of the remoter parts of the kingdom is immediately distinguished by a kind of dissipated curiosity, a busy endeavour to divide his attention amongst a thousand objects, and a wild confusion of astonishment and alarm.”

Samuel Johnson

About This Quote

City dwellers view opulence with detachment, while those from remote areas are overwhelmed by curiosity and alarm at the city's complexity.

In simple terms: City life breeds indifference; remote life breeds curiosity and confusion.

Key Takeaway

Recognize how environment shapes perception.

Themes

urban life perception curiosity

Mood

reflective analytical

Type

philosophical observational

When to use this quote

  • travel
  • urban planning
  • cultural exchange

Key Concepts

sociology psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does your environment shape your view of wealth?
  • Can curiosity coexist with indifference?
A Different Perspective

Remote observers may misinterpret urban nuance due to lack of context.

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