Art Quote by Tom Robbins
““After the monkeys came down from the trees and learned to hurl sharp objects, they had had to move into caves for protection--not only from the big predatory cats but, as they began to lose their monkey fur, from the elements. Eventually, they started transposing their hunting fantasies onto cave walls in the form of pictures, first as an attempt at practical magic and later for the strange, unexpected pleasure they discovered in artistic creation. Time passed. Art came off the walls and turned into ritual. Ritual became religion. Religion spawned science. Science led to big business. And big business, if it continues on its present mindless, voracious trajectory, could land those of us lucky enough to survive its ultimate legacy back into caves again.””
About This Quote
Human cultural evolution moves from survival to art, then to religion, science, business, and possibly back to survival if unchecked.
In simple terms: Culture evolves from art to religion to science to business, risking a return to primitive survival.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and steer the trajectory of progress.
Themes
culture
evolution
technology
environment
future
Mood
reflective
cautious
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- urban development
- technological growth
- environmental policy
- economic planning
Key Concepts
progression
risk
sustainability
Questions to Reflect On
- What safeguards can prevent regression?
- How can we balance growth with ecological limits?
A Different Perspective
The narrative may oversimplify complex historical processes.
