In our time mass or collective production has entered our economics, our politics, even our religion, so that some nations have substituted the idea collective for the idea God. This in my time is the danger. There is great tension in the world, tension toward a breaking point, and men are unhappy and confused. At such a time it seems natural and good to me to ask myself these questions. What do I believe in? What must I fight for and what must I fight against?

In our time mass or collective production has entered our economics, our politics, even our religion, so that some nations have substituted the idea collective for the idea God. This in my time is the danger. There is great tension in the world, tension toward a breaking point, and men are unhappy and confused. At such a time it seems natural and good to me to ask myself these questions. What do I believe in? What must I fight for and what must I fight against?

📖 John Steinbeck

🌍 American  |  👨‍💼 Author

🎂 February 27, 1902  –  ⚰️ December 20, 1968
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This quote prompts a profound reflection on the shifting paradigms that shape our societal values and individual beliefs. The speaker underscores how collective interests—be it through economic systems, political ideologies, or even religious doctrines—have increasingly overshadowed traditional spiritual foundations such as belief in God. This substitution suggests a move toward collectivism that might dilute personal responsibility, spiritual purpose, and moral clarity. It resonates with the current era marked by rapid globalization, technological advancement, and ideological conflicts that foster tension and confusion among individuals and nations alike. The idea of tension reaching a breaking point echoes fears of societal fragmentation or collapse if the core principles guiding human coexistence are not reexamined. Asking oneself what one believes in and what one must fight for becomes a vital act of personal agency amidst this chaos. It encourages clarity, values, and purpose, serving as a beacon for individual integrity and societal renewal. By contemplating these questions, individuals can find grounding in their core beliefs and navigate complex modern challenges with conscience and conviction. Overall, the quote highlights the importance of self-awareness and moral direction in times of societal upheaval, emphasizing that true stability and meaning come from aligning one’s actions with deeply held personal and ethical beliefs.

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June 29, 2025

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