The Greeks possessed a knowledge of human nature we seem hardly able to attain to without passing through the strengthening hibernation of a new barbarism.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Ancient wisdom about human nature may require a reset through dark times to be regained.
- In plain terms
- The Greeks understood humans well, but we might need a period of darkness to reach that understanding again.
- What can you take from it?
- Progress sometimes requires a return to basics after a setback.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Do we lose wisdom over time?
- Is progress cyclical or linear?
Another view
The idea of a new barbarism is pessimistic and unproven.
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