What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
Until the men of action clear out the talkers we who have social consciences are at the mercy of those who have none.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Action is necessary to ensure that social responsibilities are addressed, rather than being left to mere talk.
This quote by George Bernard Shaw highlights the importance of action over idle talk when it comes to social conscience. It suggests that individuals who are active and take initiative must step forward to ensure that those who talk about social issues but do not take action do not dominate the conversation or outcome. Thus, it emphasizes the need for proactive measures to make meaningful changes in society.
Themes
ActionSocial ConscienceTalkChangeInitiative
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech, one could use this quote to urge the audience to take action on social issues rather than just discussing them.
More from George Bernard Shaw
All quotes βMarriage is good enough for the lower classes: they have facilities for desertion that are denied to us.
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
George Bernard ShawRead
Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
George Bernard ShawRead
Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
George Bernard ShawRead
The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
George Bernard ShawRead
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The greater part of what my neighbors call good I believe in my soul to be bad, and if I repent of anything, it is very likely to be my good behavior. What demon possessed me that I behaved so well? You may say the wisest thing you can, old man, - you who have lived seventy years, not without honor of a kind, - I hear an irresistible voice which invites me away from all that.
Henry David ThoreauRead