What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
Nothing is ever done in this world until men are prepared to kill one another if it is not done.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that significant actions or changes often require extreme measures, including conflict or violence, to be realized.
George Bernard Shaw's quote reflects on the harsh reality of human history, positing that many accomplishments or changes in society are often precipitated by conflict and the willingness to confront opposition, sometimes violently. This perspective encourages a deep reflection on the motives behind social progress and the moral complexities of human interactions, suggesting that it takes a serious commitment, even to the point of aggression, to bring about substantial change.
Themes
ConflictChangeViolenceSocietyAction
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech about social reform, one might use this quote to illustrate the lengths that have historically been necessary to effect change.
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.
George Bernard ShawRead
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 struggle to end sexist oppression that focuses on destroying the cultural basis for such domination strengthens other liberation struggles. Individuals who fight for the eradication of sexism without struggles to end racism or classism undermine their own efforts. Individuals who fight for the eradication of racism or classism while supporting sexist oppression are helping to maintain the cultural basis of all forms of group oppression.
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