"Sanity is only that which is within the frame of reference of conventional thought"
- Erich Fromm
About this Quote
This quote by Erich Fromm recommends that sanity is defined by the standards of society. It implies that what is thought about to be normal or appropriate is determined by the cumulative beliefs of the majority. Fromm is suggesting that if something is declined by the majority, it is not considered to be sane. This might be analyzed as a criticism of the concept that society's requirements should be the only procedure of what is considered to be sane. It might likewise be viewed as a warning versus blindly following the beliefs of the bulk without thinking about alternative perspectives. Fromm's quote motivates us to believe seriously and to question the status quo. It suggests that we ought to be open to different ideas and perspectives, even if they are declined by the majority. Eventually, Fromm's quote motivates us to think for ourselves and to challenge the borders of standard idea.
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