“The first requisite of civilization is that of justice.”
- May 6, 1856 – September 23, 1939
- Austrian
- Neurologist, Founder of Psychoanalysis
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Quote
“The first requisite of civilization is that of justice.”
Explanation
In this quote, Freud emphasizes that justice is the foundational principle of any civilized society. Civilization, in his view, is not defined merely by technological progress or cultural achievement, but by the establishment of fair and consistent rules that regulate human behavior. Justice is what transforms raw power into legitimate authority and conflict into coexistence. Without it, the social contract breaks down, and civilization reverts to a state of instinctual aggression and chaos.
Freud made this point in Civilization and Its Discontents (1930), where he explored the tension between individual desires and the demands of communal life. He argued that for civilization to endure, it must ensure that laws are not arbitrary but apply equally, providing a sense of moral order and collective trust. Justice, therefore, is not just a legal or political tool; it is a psychological necessity that helps individuals accept the sacrifices civilization requires, such as the repression of certain instincts.
In contemporary society, Freud’s insight remains deeply relevant. Justice continues to be the litmus test for legitimacy, whether in courts, politics, or social movements. When people perceive injustice—through corruption, inequality, or discrimination—they may withdraw, rebel, or feel alienated, threatening the very fabric of social cohesion. Freud’s quote is a timeless reminder that without justice, civilization is not only fragile—it is fundamentally incomplete.
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