The type of fig leaf which each culture employs to cover its social taboos offers a twofold description of its morality. It reveals that certain unacknowledged behavior exists and it suggests the form that such behavior takes.

Summary

This quote suggests that the societal and cultural taboos that exist in any given culture provide insight into its moral values and beliefs. The way a society conceals or avoids acknowledging certain behavior reflects the existence of those actions that are considered forbidden or unacceptable. Additionally, the methods used to cover up or hide these behaviors can shed light on the specific forms that these behaviors take. In essence, the quote implies that by observing the type of fig leaf employed by a culture, we can gain understanding about the hidden aspects of their morality and the shape those behaviors assume.

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