Barbarism Quote by Will Durant
““Magic begins in superstition, and ends in science. ... At every step the history of civilization teaches us how slight and superficial a structure civilization is, and how precariously it is poised upon the apex of a never-extinct volcano of poor and oppressed barbarism, superstition and ignorance. Modernity is a cap superimposed upon the Middle Ages, which always remain.””
About This Quote
The quote suggests that human progress is built on fragile foundations of superstition and oppression, and modern civilization merely overlays ancient ignorance.
In simple terms: Civilization rests on shaky, outdated beliefs.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge underlying assumptions.
Themes
history
civilization
superstition
modernity
fragility
Mood
thoughtful
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- political activism
- cultural analysis
- media literacy
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical theory
sociology
Questions to Reflect On
- What hidden biases shape our view of progress?
- How can we build more resilient societies?
A Different Perspective
It may overgeneralize complex historical processes.
![“That country [Carthage] was rapidly sinking into the state of barbarism from whence it had been raised by the Phoenician colonies and Roman laws; and every step of intestine discord was marked by some deplorable victory of savage man over civilized society.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/70c/edward-gibbon-710_barbarism_that-country-carthage-was-rapidly-sinkin_393.jpg)
![“[Much] as war attracts me and fascinates my mind with its tremendous situations, I feel more deeply every year . . . what vile and wicked folly and barbarism it all is.” quote by Winston Churchill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/e15/winston-churchill-95_barbarism_much-as-war-attracts-me-and-fascinates-m_68452.jpg)
