"I don't think you can in any way export culture with guns or tanks"
- Bernardo Bertolucci
About this Quote
This quote by Bernardo Bertolucci talks to the idea that culture can not be required upon individuals. It suggests that culture is something that is developed and shared organically, and can not be imposed through using violence or military force. Bertolucci is suggesting that culture is something that is special to each group of individuals, and that it can not be taken away or replaced by another culture. He is likewise suggesting that making use of weapons and tanks to enforce a culture on a group of individuals is not only ineffective, but likewise incorrect. This quote talks to the concept that culture is something that should be respected and appreciated, and not something that can be taken away or changed by another culture. It is a tip that culture is something that must be shared and celebrated, not something that must be forced upon people.
"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"