Johan Huizinga Quotes

“Play is a uniquely adaptive act, not subordinate to some other adaptive act, but with a special function of its own in human experience.”

“History is the interpretation of the significance that the past has for us.”

“History can predict nothing except that great changes in human relationships will never come about in the form in which they have been anticipated.”

“Every age yearns for a more beautiful world. The deeper the desperation and the depression about the confusing present, the more intense that yearning.”

“An aristocratic culture does not advertise its emotions. In its forms of expression it is sober and reserved. Its general attitude is stoic.”

“In today's society conformity is more of a necessity than an option.”

“To win you have to score one more goal than your opponent.”

“Everyone dies, but does everyone really live?”

“I've had plentiful opportunities for great things. Just didn't open my eyes.”

“The problem with call-in shows is quite simple, if you only dare to admit it: Democracy is best when not everyone can be heard all the time. If we are constantly reminded of all the stupid things that people say and think, it becomes rather difficult to remember the good and noble arguments for everyone to be able to participate and decide.”