Quote by Wendell Berry, Peaceableness Tow
History leaves no doubt that among of the most regrettable crimes committed by human beings have been committed by those human beings who thought of themselves as civilized. What, we must ask, does our civilization possess that is worth defending? One thing worth defending, I suggest, is the imperative to imagine the lives of beings who are not ourselves and are not like ourselves: animals, plants, gods, spirits, people of other countries, other races, people of the other sex, places and enemies.
Summary
This quote highlights the dark side of civilization and warns against the arrogance and moral blindness of those who consider themselves to be civilized. It questions the foundation of our civilization and challenges us to reflect on what is truly worth defending. One significant aspect worth defending, according to the quote, is our capacity to imagine and empathize with lives that are different from our own. It urges us to consider the well-being and rights of all beings - be it animals, plants, gods, spirits, people from different countries, races, sexes, or even our adversaries.
Topics
Tolerance
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