Quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson

Society never advances. It recedes as fast on one side as it gains on the other. It undergoes continual changes; it is barbarous, it is civilized, it is christianized, it is rich, it is scientific; but this change is not amelioration. For every thing that is given, something is taken.

Society never advances. It recedes as fast on one side as it

Summary

This quote suggests that societal progress is not a linear or continuous process. While society may experience advancements in areas such as civilization, Christianity, wealth, and science, these changes do not necessarily lead to overall improvement or betterment. Instead, the quote argues that for every gain made, something else is lost. It implies that progress is subjective and comes at a cost, highlighting the complex nature of societal development and the potentially conflicting consequences that accompany it.

Topics

Society Inspirational

By Ralph Waldo Emerson

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