I doubt if a single individual could be found from the whole of mankind free from some form of insanity. The only difference is one of degree. A man who sees a gourd and takes it for his wife is called insane because this happens to very few people.
Small wonder our national spirit is husk empty. We have more information but less knowledge. More communication but less community. More goods but less goodwill. More of virtually everything save that which the human spirit requires. So distracted have we become sating this new need or that material appetite, we hardly noticed the departure of happiness
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the disparity between material abundance and genuine happiness in society.
Randall Robinson's quote critiques modern society's obsession with information, communication, and material possessions, suggesting that despite these advancements, we have become increasingly disconnected from what truly nourishes the human spirit, such as community, goodwill, and happiness. It serves as a reminder that the accumulation of external goods does not equate to internal fulfillment, and highlights the importance of nurturing our emotional and social well-being.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the importance of community engagement in today's digital age.
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