The civilized man is a larger mind but a more imperfect nature than the savage

The civilized man is a larger mind but a more imperfect nature than the savage

Margaret Fuller, a prominent 19th-century American writer, critic, and women's rights advocate, was known for her progressive views on society and human nature. In her work, she often explored the complexities of human behavior and the dichotomy between civilization and savagery. One of her most famous quotes, "The civilized man is a larger mind but a more imperfect nature than the savage," encapsulates her belief that while civilization may bring about intellectual growth and advancement, it also comes with its own set of flaws and shortcomings.

Fuller believed that civilization, with its emphasis on education, culture, and social norms, could lead to the development of a more sophisticated and refined mind. The civilized man, in her view, possessed a greater capacity for critical thinking, creativity, and self-awareness than the savage. However, Fuller also recognized that this intellectual growth often came at the expense of a deeper connection to nature and a more instinctual understanding of the world.