What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
The plain working truth is that it is not only good for people to be shocked occasionally, but absolutely necessary to the progress of society that they should be shocked pretty often.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Shock can lead to necessary change and progress in society.
George Bernard Shaw asserts that experiencing shocks is not just beneficial, but essential for societal advancement. By being confronted with unexpected realities, individuals are prompted to reassess their beliefs and encourage progress through challenge and debate.
Themes
ShockSocietyProgressChangeTruth
In practice
Example use cases
During a public speech on societal issues, one might use this quote to highlight the need for challenging conversations.
More from George Bernard Shaw
All quotes →Marriage 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
Similar quotes
I would argue that nothing gives life more purpose than the realization that every moment of consciousness is a precious and fragile gift.
Steven PinkerRead
It seems to me,' said the other, 'That you are simply seeking a pretext to insult the Marquis.' By George!' said Syme facing round and looking at him, 'What a clever chap you are!
Gilbert K. ChestertonRead
The whites, too, shall pass - perhaps sooner than other tribes. Continue to contaminate your bed and you will one night suffocate in your own waste.
Chief SeattleRead
We cannot defend freedom abroad by deserting it at home.
Edward R. MurrowRead
In ancient, prehistoric times, the temples of the spirit were outwardly visible, but today, when our life has become so unspiritual, they no longer exist where we can see them with our physical eyes. Yet spiritually they are still present everywhere, and whoever seeks can find them.
Rudolf SteinerRead
The true friends of the people are neither revolutionaries, nor innovators, but traditionalists.
Pope Pius XRead