That which seems the height of absurdity in one generation often becomes the height of wisdom in the next.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Suggests that ideas considered ridiculous in one era may be seen as wise in another.
- In plain terms
- Absurd ideas can become wise later on.
- What can you take from it?
- What seems absurd today might be wisdom tomorrow.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What is a popular idea you think might be absurd?
- How does society decide what is wise?
Another view
Not all absurd ideas eventually become wise; many remain wrong.
More from Adlai Stevenson
This not the first time a war hero has gotten in my way...
Permalink to quote #107 Though Americans talk a good deal about the virtue of being serious, they generally prefer people who are solemn over people who are serious. In politics, the …
Permalink to quote #109 The human race has improved everything, but the human race.
Permalink to quote #106
Related quotes
That which seems the height of absurdity in one generation often becomes the height of wisdom in the next.
John Stuart MillJohn Stuart Mill quote #72 I wonder whether any other generation has seen such astounding revolutions of data and values as those through which we have lived. Scarcely anything material …
Winston ChurchillWinston Churchill quote #9 Did satisfy myself mighty fair in the truth of the saying that the world do not grow old at all, but is in as good condition in all respects as ever it was.
Samuel PepysSamuel Pepys quote #15