"It is not part of a true culture to tame tigers, any more than it is to make sheep ferocious"
- Henry David Thoreau
About this Quote
Henry David Thoreau's quote is a metaphor for the concept that it is not part of a true culture to try to alter the nature of something. He is stating that it is not possible to make something that is naturally wild, like a tiger, tame, or to make something that is naturally gentle, like a sheep, relentless. He is recommending that it is better to accept and value the natural qualities of things, rather than trying to alter them. This concept can be used to numerous aspects of life, such as accepting individuals for who they are, instead of attempting to alter them to fit our own expectations. Thoreau's quote is a tip that it is essential to appreciate the natural qualities of things, and to accept them as they are.
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"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"
