Full Idea
The things in civilisation we most prize are not of ourselves. They exist by grace of the doings and sufferings of the continuous human community in which we are a link
Gist of Idea
The things in civilisation we prize are the products of other members of our community
Source
John Dewey (The Later Works (17 vols, ed Boydston) [1930], 9:57), quoted by David Hildebrand - Dewey 7 'Reconstruct'
Book Reference
Hildebrand,David: 'Dewey' [One World 2008], p.202
A Reaction
Dewey defends liberalism, but he has strong communitarian tendencies. What is the significance of an enduring community losing touch with its own achievements?
Related Idea
Idea 22874 Individuality is only developed within groups [Dewey]