"Culture is a little like dropping an Alka-Seltzer into a glass - you don't see it, but somehow it does something"
- Hans Magnus Enzensberger
About this Quote
This quote by Hans Magnus Enzensberger is a metaphor for the power of culture. It recommends that culture resembles an Alka-Seltzer tablet, which is not visible but has a powerful result. The Alka-Seltzer tablet is dropped into a glass of water and it starts to fizz and liquify, creating a reaction that changes the water. Likewise, culture is not noticeable but it has an effective effect on society. It forms our beliefs, values, and behaviors, and affects how we connect with each other. It can likewise shape our attitudes and viewpoints, and even our physical environment. In this way, culture is like an invisible force that has a profound impact on our lives.
"We have our own history, our own language, our own culture. But our destiny is also tied up with the destinies of other people - history has made us all South Africans"
"Of course as children, we all, in all cultures and societies, learn behavior from observation, imitation, and encouragement of various kinds. So by the suggestion made, we all 'pretend' most of the time"
"Without culture, and the relative freedom it implies, society, even when perfect, is but a jungle. This is why any authentic creation is a gift to the future"
