Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
Will DurantRead
In philosophy, as in politics, the longest distance between two points is a straight line.
Interpretation
What this quote means
This quote suggests that achieving a straightforward solution or path can be complicated by unnecessary complexities in thought or action.
Will Durant's quote uses the metaphor of a straight line to illustrate how philosophical and political processes often become convoluted. It emphasizes that, while theoretically the simplest way between two points is a straight line, in practice, the journey often involves detours, obstacles, and complications, reflecting the challenges in both political and philosophical discourse.
Themes
PhilosophyPoliticsComplexitySimplicitySolutions
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a lecture on the challenges of decision-making in politics.
More from Will Durant
All quotes βThe greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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If we have never been amazed by the very fact that we exist, we are squandering the greatest fact of all.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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