“Does there exist in modern times a purpose or ideology powerful enough to strongly guarantee the true nature of an action?”
- January 14, 1925 – November 25, 1970
- Born in Japan
- Novelist, playwright, critic, political activist
Japanese
「行為に行為たる性質を力強く保証するような、それだけの価値ある目的や思想が現代に存在するか？」
English
“Does there exist in modern times a purpose or ideology powerful enough to strongly guarantee the true nature of an action?”
Explanation
In this quote, Mishima questions whether modern society still has values or ideologies that can provide a strong foundation for human actions. He suggests that in the past, there may have been clear and unshakeable guiding principles that defined the true nature of actions, ensuring that they were meaningful and purposeful. These principles, rooted in traditional values, moral codes, or philosophies, served as a guarantee for the authenticity of one’s actions. However, Mishima wonders if, in the modern era, these deeply rooted ideals still exist, or if society has become fragmented, lacking the unifying forces that give actions their true significance. Without such guiding principles, Mishima implies that actions may become meaningless or detached, driven by superficial motives rather than a clear and purposeful ideology.
Mishima’s concern reflects his broader critique of modernity, where he often lamented the loss of spiritual values and the rise of materialism and relativism. He believed that in contemporary society, people were increasingly disconnected from the grand ideals that once gave their lives and actions meaning. Mishima’s statement suggests that, without a strong ideological foundation, human actions may become empty or directionless, driven by personal gain, self-interest, or external pressures rather than a higher purpose or moral commitment.
In a modern context, this quote encourages reflection on the purposefulness of human action today. In a world where values and belief systems are often questioned, and where individualism and relativism prevail, Mishima’s words urge us to consider whether modern society has a strong enough purpose or ideology to ensure that actions are authentic and meaningful. Today, many individuals and groups might struggle to find guiding principles that offer a deep sense of direction for their actions. Mishima’s critique challenges us to reconnect with enduring ideals—whether in politics, culture, or personal lives—that can provide a strong moral foundation and guarantee the true nature of our actions in a world that often feels fragmented or directionless.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
