Art is the close scrutiny of reality and therefore I put on the stage only those things that I know happen in our society.
Edward BondRead
It's politely assumed that democracy is a means of containing and restraining violence. But violence comes not from genes but from ideas
Interpretation
What this quote means
Democracy aims to control violence, but the root of violence lies in ideas rather than inherent traits.
This quote suggests that while democracy is often viewed as a system designed to prevent and manage violence within society, the real source of violence is not biological or genetic but rather stems from the ideas and beliefs held by individuals. It underlines the importance of addressing the ideologies and concepts that fuel violent behavior rather than solely relying on democratic structures to maintain peace.
Themes
DemocracyViolenceIdeasPhilosophyPeace
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech on social justice, one might reference this quote to illustrate the importance of addressing systemic issues.
More from Edward Bond
All quotes βI write plays not to make money, but to stop myself from going mad. Because it's my way of making the world rational to me.
Edward BondRead
Similar quotes
Probably the greatest harm done by vast wealth is the harm that we of moderate means do ourselves when we let the vices of envy and hatred enter deep into our own natures.
Theodore RooseveltRead
Twilight and evening bell, And after that the dark! And may there be no sadness of farewell, When I embark; For though from out our bourne of Time and Place The flood may bear me far, I hope to see my Pilot face to face When I have crossed the bar.
Alfred Lord TennysonRead
As long as civilization is essentially one of property, of fences, of exclusiveness, it will be mocked by delusions. Our riches will leave us sick; there will be bitterness in our laughter, and our wine will burn our mouth. Only that good profits which we can taste with all doors open, and which serves all men.
Ralph Waldo EmersonRead
Religion is the organization of spirituality into something that became the hand maiden of conquerors. Nearly all religions were brought to people and imposed on people by conquerors, and used as the framework to control their minds.
John Henrik ClarkeRead
It is the greatest good to the greatest number of people which is the measure of right and wrong.
Jeremy BenthamRead
One who hates is a man holding a magnifying-glass, and when he hates someone, he knows precisely that person's surface, from the soles of his feet all the way up to each hair on the hated head
Hermann BrochRead