Colony Quote by Sarah Vowell
““The same wakefulness the individual Calvinist was to use to keep watch over his own sins Winthrop and Cotton called for also in the group at large. This humility, this fear, was what kept their delusions of grandeur in check. That's what subsequent generations lost. From New England's Puritans we inherited the idea that America is blessed and ordained by God above all nations, but lost the fear of wrath and retribution.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The American Revolution: A History, 2015
Early Puritan humility and fear of divine wrath kept collective ego in check; modern America lost that restraining force.
In simple terms: Puritan fear limited arrogance; modern society lacks it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize humility as a societal balance.
Themes
history
humility
religion
politics
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
historical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- education
- public policy
Key Concepts
theology
social control
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance humility with ambition?
- What modern mechanisms replace religious fear?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on humility can suppress healthy confidence.
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