If mankind were all intellect, they would be continually changing, so that one age would be entirely unlike another. The great conservative is the heart, which remains the same in all ages; so that commonplaces of a thousand years' standing are as effective as ever.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- While intellect causes constant change, the heart remains a conservative force across ages, keeping commonplaces effective.
- In plain terms
- The heart keeps human values stable even as thoughts change over time.
- What can you take from it?
- Emotions provide stability across generations.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- What values have stayed the same over centuries?
- Is emotion better than intellect for stability?
Another view
Some traditions may become outdated even if emotions remain constant.
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