Quotes With Meaning
Civilizations are the generations of the racial soul. As family-rearing, and then writing, bound the generations together, handing down the lore of the dying to the young, so print and commerce and a thousand ways of communication may bind the civilizations together, and preserve for future cultures all that is of value for them in our own. Let us, before we die, gather up our heritage, and offer it to our children.
Civilizations are the generations of the racial soul. As family-rearing, and then writing, bound the generations together, handing down the lore of the dying to the young, so print and commerce and a thousand ways of communication may bind the civilizations together, and preserve for future cultures all that is of value for them in our own. Let us, before we die, gather up our heritage, and offer it to our children.
This quote emphasizes the importance of preserving and passing down cultural knowledge and values through generations. Will Durant compares the way families raise children and share stories to the broader societal efforts of using print, commerce, and communication to connect different civilizations. He suggests that just as families pass down their lore, societies should gather their collective heritage and ensure it is available for future generations. This act of sharing wisdom is crucial for the growth and freedom of cultures, allowing them to learn from the past. By encouraging this practice, Durant highlights the responsibility we have to enrich the lives of our children with the valuable lessons and experiences of our civilization. Ultimately, it is a call to recognize and embrace our legacy before it is too late.