We have to realize that we are as deeply afraid to live and to love as we are to die.
R. D. LaingRead
Children are not yet fools, but we shall turn them into imbeciles like ourselves, with high I.Q.'s if possible.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that society often negatively influences the natural intelligence of children, turning them into less capable adults despite high IQs.
R. D. Laing's quote reflects a critical viewpoint on how societal norms and educational systems can stifle the innate potential and wisdom of children. It implies that rather than nurturing their natural curiosity and intelligence, we often impose limitations and conformist thinking, resulting in individuals who may excel academically yet lack true understanding and creativity.
Themes
ChildrenEducationIntelligenceSocietyImitation
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the education system, one might use this quote to highlight the flaws in how we educate children.
More from R. D. Laing
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Here we have the paradox, the potentially tragic paradox, that our relatedness to others is an essential aspect of our being, as is our separateness, but any particular person is not a necessary part of our being.
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I am moreover inclined to be concise when I reflect on the constant occupation of the citizens in public and private affairs, so that in their few leisure moments they may read and understand as much as possible.
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