"Western society has many flaws, and it is good for an educated person to have thought some of these through, even at the expense of losing a lecture or two to tear gas"

This quote by Robert B. Laughlin recommends that it is very important for an informed person to be knowledgeable about the defects of Western society, even if it means missing out on some lectures. He indicates that it is more vital to think critically about the concerns in society than to attend lectures. He recommends that it deserves the sacrifice of missing out on a couple of lectures in order to gain a much better understanding of the defects of Western society. This quote encourages individuals to put in the time to consider the issues in society and to be familiar with the problems that exist. It also suggests that it is very important to act and to be an active individual in making society better. By being aware of the defects of Western society, we can interact to produce a much better future.