QuoteProject
We now think it hilarious that medieval streets were used as open sewers. Equally, our descendants will say: 'You won't believe this, but people were once allowed to hurl a couple of tons of dangerous metal around smashing into each other.'
Norman Foster
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects on how societal norms evolve over time, often leading us to find past practices absurd.

Norman Foster's quote highlights the tendency of human societies to adapt and change their perceptions over time. It draws a parallel between how we now view the unsanitary conditions of medieval streets and how future generations may see our modern practices, particularly in relation to the dangers of automobiles. This suggests that what seems normal or acceptable today may be seen as outrageous or ridiculous in the future, prompting us to reconsider the practices we take for granted.

Themes

SocietyChangeEvolutionPerceptionNorms

In practice

Example use cases

This quote can be used in a discussion about urban development and the evolution of city planning.

More from Norman Foster

As an architect you design for the present, with an awareness of the past, for a future which is essentially unknown.
Norman FosterRead
Every time I've flown an aircraft, or visited a steelworks, or watched a panel-beater at work, I've learned something new that can be applied to buildings.
Norman FosterRead
The most amazing lesson in aerodynamics I ever had was the day I climbed a thermal in a glider at the same time as an eagle. I witnessed, close up, effortlessness and lightness combined with strength, precision and determination.
Norman FosterRead
Everything we design is a response to the specific climate and culture of a particular place.
Norman FosterRead
It takes a lot of effort to make a building look effortless.
Norman FosterRead
Architecture is an expression of values.
Norman FosterRead

Similar quotes

The President to-night has a dream: - He was in a party of plain people, and, as it became known who he was, they began to comment on his appearance. One of them said: - "He is a very common-looking man". The President replied: - "The Lord prefers common-looking people. That is the reason he makes so many of them".
Abraham LincolnRead
How does it feel, how does it feel to be without a home, like a complete unknown, like a rolling stone.
Bob DylanRead
You cannot shake hands with a clenched fist.
Indira GandhiRead
Our environment, the world in which we live and work, is a mirror of our attitudes and expectations.
Earl NightingaleRead
Tramping is too easy with all this money. My days were more exciting when I was penniless and had to forage around for my next meal... I've decided that I'm going to live this life for some time to come. The freedom and simple beauty of it is just too good to pass up.
Christopher MccandlessRead
How can a speck of a universe be physically identical to the great expanse we view in the heavens above?
Brian GreeneRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.