Autonomy Quote by Terry Eagleton
“We face a conflict between civilisation and culture, which used to be on the same side. Civilisation means rational reflection, material wellbeing, individual autonomy and ironic self-doubt; culture means a form of life that is customary, collective, passionate, spontaneous, unreflective and irrational.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Idea of Culture, Terry Eagleton, 2002
Civilisation and culture once aligned but now clash; civilisation values rationality and autonomy, while culture embraces tradition and emotion.
In simple terms: Rational society vs. emotional tradition clash.
Key Takeaway
Balance reason with tradition.
Themes
civilisation
culture
conflict
identity
modernity
Mood
reflective
critical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- artistic creation
- community building
- personal identity formation
Key Concepts
rationality
tradition
collective identity
individual autonomy
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies integrate rational progress with cultural heritage?
- What aspects of culture should be preserved?
A Different Perspective
Culture may resist necessary progress.
