C.S. Lewis's The Abolition of Man (1943) remains chillingly relevant decades after its publication. This short but potent work warns against the dangers of a purely scientific and subjective approach to education, arguing that it ultimately leads to the devaluation of humanity itself. While written in response to a specific textbook, its themes of objective truth, moral absolutes, and the nature of humanity continue to resonate deeply in our contemporary world. This article will explore several key quotes from the book, examining their enduring significance and how they apply to modern challenges.
"The task of the modern educator is not to cut down jungles but to irrigate deserts."
This quote highlights the stark difference between the traditional approach to education, which Lewis saw as cultivating existing virtues and values, and the modern approach, which he believed aimed to fill a void, a lack of inherent moral compass. The "jungle" represents the richness and complexity of human nature, potentially unruly but containing valuable resources. The "desert" represents the barren landscape of a mind devoid of inherent moral understanding, requiring artificial irrigation—that is, the imposition of subjective values rather than the cultivation of objective ones. This resonates today in debates about the role of character education in schools, often overshadowed by a focus on skills and STEM subjects.
"Men without chests"
This is arguably the most famous image from The Abolition of Man. Lewis uses this phrase to describe individuals who have been educated to value only subjective experience and reason, neglecting the cultivation of their emotions and moral intuition – the "chest" representing the seat of emotions and moral sentiment. Such individuals lack the capacity for self-sacrifice, compassion, and a sense of the transcendent. They are, in essence, morally underdeveloped. The dangers of creating "men without chests" manifest in various ways today, from a pervasive moral relativism to a lack of empathy and community spirit. The increasing disconnect from nature and the prioritization of self-interest over collective good, also contribute to this concern.
What are the implications of creating "men without chests"?
The creation of "men without chests" has profound societal consequences. It leads to a society lacking in moral stability and cohesion. Without shared values and a sense of the common good, social harmony becomes extremely difficult to maintain. Individualism runs rampant, and the potential for exploitation and oppression increases significantly. The sense of a shared human experience is diminished.
"To be inebriated is to be fully conscious of an objective fact."
This paradoxical statement underlines Lewis's argument for the existence of objective moral truth. He suggests that genuine experiences, including those of moral feeling, bring us into contact with a reality that transcends our subjective opinions. In this context, "inebriation" refers not to alcohol, but to being deeply affected and fully absorbed by something real and significant, such as encountering beauty, experiencing love, or recognizing moral duty. This relates to modern debates concerning the role of experience in shaping moral understanding. While pure reason is important, it can never fully account for the profound impact of lived experience in forming our moral convictions.
How does this quote relate to the modern understanding of morality?
This quote challenges the purely subjective or emotivist theories of morality prevalent in some contemporary thought. It suggests that morality isn't simply a matter of personal preference or social construct, but engages with a deeper reality. We encounter this reality through authentic human experiences, which inform and shape our moral compass.
"We make men without chests and expect of them virtue and enterprise. We laugh at honour and are shocked to find traitors in our midst."
This powerful quote directly summarizes the consequences of neglecting the moral dimension of education. By focusing solely on reason and ignoring the cultivation of virtue, we create individuals incapable of acting virtuously. The irony is evident: we expect moral behavior from people who have been systematically deprived of the capacity for such behavior. This resonates profoundly today as societies struggle with declining moral standards and a seeming inability to address fundamental ethical issues.
How does this relate to current societal issues?
This relates to current concerns about political polarization, declining civic engagement, and the rise of social unrest. Without a shared moral framework, societies become fractured and vulnerable to manipulation and extremism. The lack of a sense of shared responsibility and common purpose makes it increasingly difficult to address complex social challenges.
In conclusion, The Abolition of Man continues to offer vital warnings for contemporary society. Lewis's insights into the dangers of a purely subjectivist worldview and the necessity of cultivating virtue remain profoundly relevant in our modern, rapidly changing world. His enduring message emphasizes the importance of fostering a comprehensive understanding of humanity that includes both reason and moral intuition, ensuring that we cultivate not "men without chests," but rather individuals equipped to navigate the complexities of life with wisdom, integrity, and compassion.
