Babies Quote by William Saroyan
““If I have any desire at all, it is to show the brotherhood of man. This is a big statement and it sounds al little precious. Generally a man is ashamed to make such a statement. He is afraid sophisticated people will laugh at him. But I don't mind. I'm asking sophisticated people to laugh. That is what sophistication is for. I do not believe in races. I do not believe in governments. I see life as one life at one time, so many million simultaneously, all over the earth. Babies who have not yet been taught to speak any language are the only race of the earth, the race of man: all the rest is pretense, what we call civilization, hatred, fear, desire for strength... but a baby is a baby. And the way they cry, there you have the brotherhood of man, babies crying.””
About This Quote
Source Speech: Interview, 1940s, William Saroyan
The speaker asserts that humanity’s true unity is seen in newborns, whose innocence transcends constructed divisions like race, nation, and civilization.
In simple terms: Human unity is reflected in babies’ pure cries.
Key Takeaway
Recognize common humanity beyond social constructs.
Themes
humanity
unity
innocence
social constructs
identity
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- parenting
- education
- conflict resolution
- community building
Key Concepts
Universalism
human nature
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we foster a sense of shared humanity in daily life?
- What barriers prevent us from seeing unity in others?
A Different Perspective
The ideal of brotherhood may be challenged by entrenched power structures and cultural narratives.
