"What progress we are making. In the Middle Ages they would have burned me. Now they are content with burning my books"
- Sigmund Freud
About this Quote
Sigmund Freud's quote is a reflection on the development of society. In the Middle Ages, individuals were persecuted for their beliefs and concepts, frequently being burned at the stake. Freud is recommending that although society has advanced, there are still those who would rather burn his books than accept his concepts. This quote is a reminder that although society has actually come a long way, there is still a long method to go in regards to approval and understanding of various beliefs and concepts. Freud's quote is a call to action for individuals to be more open-minded and tolerant of various perspectives. It is likewise a suggestion that we must not take the progress we have produced approved, which we ought to continue to strive for a more accepting and understanding society.
"In my case Pilgrim's Progress consisted in my having to climb down a thousand ladders until I could reach out my hand to the little clod of earth that I am"