It is a paradoxical but profoundly true and important principle of life that the most likely way to reach a goal is to be aiming not at that goal itself but at some more ambitious goal beyond it.
Arnold J. ToynbeeRead
Of the twenty-two civilizations that have appeared in history, nineteen of them collapsed when they reached the moral state the United States is in now.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Civilizations tend to decline when they reach a moral crisis.
Arnold J. Toynbee's quote suggests that a significant number of historical civilizations have faced collapse due to moral decline, implying a warning about the current state of morality in society, particularly in the United States. This reflection on history emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards as a foundation for longevity and stability in any civilization.
Themes
CivilizationMoralityDeclineHistoryWarning
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on societal issues, you might use this quote to emphasize the importance of ethical behavior.
More from Arnold J. Toynbee
All quotes βNo being can be what he is unless he is putting his essence into action in his field.
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Write regularly, day in and day out, at whatever times of day you find that you write best. Don't wait till you feel that you are in the mood. Write, whether you are feeling inclined to write or not.
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I do not believe that civilizations have to die because civilization is not an organism. It is a product of wills.
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Sooner or later, man has always had to decide whether he worships his own power or the power of God.
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Love's way of dealing with us is different from conscience's way. Conscience commands; love inspires. What we do out of love, we do because we want to.
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