"Not only is the self entwined in society; it owes society its existence in the most literal sense"
- Theodor Adorno
About this Quote
In this quote, Theodor Adorno is highlighting the interconnectedness in between the private and society. He argues that the self is not a different entity, but rather, it is deeply linked with the bigger social structure. Adorno goes on to recommend that the self is not only affected by society, however it likewise owes its very existence to society. This indicates that our identities, ideas, and actions are formed by the cultural standards, worths, and institutions of the society we reside in. To put it simply, we are not separated beings, but rather, we are products of our social environment. This quote serves as a tip of the considerable effect that society has on shaping our private identities.
"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"