Love consists in leaving the loved one space to be themselves while providing the security within which that self may flourish.
Tony JudtRead
What I am against is false optimism: the notion either that things have to go well, or else that they tend to, or else that the default condition of historical trajectories is characteristically beneficial in the long-run.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote criticizes naive optimism about the future, suggesting that not all historical trends lead to positive outcomes.
In this quote, Tony Judt expresses his skepticism towards the belief that historical progress is inherently positive or that all events will ultimately lead to good outcomes. He warns against false optimism, emphasizing the need for a realistic and critical perspective on history and current events, as the assumption that things will always improve can be misleading and dangerous.
Themes
OptimismHistoryRealismCautionSkepticism
In practice
Example use cases
This quote is relevant in discussions about economic forecasts and planning.
More from Tony Judt
All quotes →If active or concerned citizens forfeit politics, they thereby abandon their society to its most mediocre and venal public servants
Tony JudtRead
Obviously a primary liberal conviction is that we should be tolerant of other peoples' convictions. But if we believe in something, we had better find ways to say so convincingly.
Tony JudtRead
Social democracy does not represent an ideal future; it does not even represent the ideal past.
Tony JudtRead
I'm not sure I've learned anything new about life; but I've had to think harder about death and what comes after for other people.
Tony JudtRead
We are not merely historians but also and always citizens.
Tony JudtRead
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