I know of no one writing about politics today whose work is more inspirational. A brilliant intellectual, playwright and essayist, he believes with passion that essayists, poets, dramatists, artists, musicians, and philosophers carry responsibility for the well-being of the societies in which they live. In describing the role of politics in the world today, he exhibits a keen grasp of prevailing global dynamics. He knows from conviction and experience why a politics that is not attached to an anchored spirituality carries no lasting promise. When addressing religion, he affirms what believers wish to avow without falling into debilitating dogmatic or parochial traps. In assessing the present conditions of the world, he warns against utilitarian, pragmatic techno-culture. He respects the innate human aspiration to become rooted in that which most profoundly binds us to the core of being.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Havel argues that artists and intellectuals bear a deep responsibility for society's well-being and that true politics must be rooted in spirituality to endure.
- In plain terms
- Artists and leaders should guide society with moral depth, not just practicality.
- What can you take from it?
- Political and artistic work needs a spiritual anchor to last.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do you balance art and social responsibility?
- What role should spirituality play in public life?
Another view
Not all artists have the capacity or desire to take on societal leadership roles.
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