Men are made uneasy; they flinch; they cannot bear the sudden light; a general restlessness supervenes; the face of society is disturbed, or perhaps convulsed; old interests and old beliefs have been destroyed before new ones have been created. These symptoms are the precursors of revolution; they have preceded all the great changes through which the world has passed.

Summary

This quote suggests that when individuals are confronted with sudden and profound changes, they become uneasy and uncomfortable. They struggle to adapt to new circumstances, leading to restlessness and upheaval within society. The quote argues that such symptoms often foreshadow revolutionary movements, as old traditions and beliefs are dismantled without new ones being firmly established. These upheavals have historically accompanied major transformations in the world. Overall, the quote highlights the disruptive nature of significant societal shifts and the challenges faced in navigating through periods of change.

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