Conformity is one of the nihilistic temptations of rebellion which dominate a large part of our intellectual history. It demonstrates how the rebel who takes to action is tempted to succumb, if he forgets his origins, to the most absolute conformity. And so it explains the twentieth century.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Rebels often become conformist when they forget their origins, explaining modern intellectual history.
- In plain terms
- Rebels fail when they copy the very rules they fought.
- What can you take from it?
- True rebellion avoids conformity.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When does rebellion turn into conformity?
- What keeps a rebel authentic?
Another view
Some conformity is necessary for collective action.
More from Albert Camus
Charm is a way of getting the answer 'Yes' without asking a clear question.
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