Quote by Lionel Trilling

We are at heart so profoundly anarchistic that the only form of state we can imagine living in is Utopian; and so cynical that the only Utopia we can believe in is authoritarian.

We are at heart so profoundly anarchistic that the only form

Summary

This quote suggests that as human beings, we possess inherent anarchistic tendencies, which means we instinctively desire freedom from oppressive systems or rules. However, it also implies that we harbor cynicism towards the feasibility of a truly ideal society, leading us to believe that the only way to maintain order and unity is through authoritarian control. Essentially, the quote highlights our conflicting desires for both freedom and security, exemplifying the complex nature of our beliefs about governance and societal structures.

Topics

Paradise Utopia

By Lionel Trilling

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