Walter Bagehot: 'The whole history of civilization is strewn with creeds and institutions which were invaluable at first, and deadly afterwards.'

The whole history of civilization is strewn with creeds and institutions which were invaluable at first, and deadly afterwards.

In his renowned quote, Walter Bagehot astutely observes that the trajectory of civilization is marked by the rise and fall of creeds and institutions that initially hold immense value, only to become detrimental over time. This insightful statement calls our attention to the cyclic nature of human endeavors, where ideas and institutions once revolutionary and groundbreaking can eventually become stagnant and even harmful. Furthermore, Bagehot's quote invites us to examine these historical shifts with a critical lens, delving into the complexities and contradictions of human progress. In this article, we will explore the meaning and significance of this quote, and introduce a philosophical concept that sheds light on the underlying reasons for this paradoxical nature of civilization.At first glance, Bagehot's quote implies that many of the beliefs and institutions humanity has created throughout history initially brought about revolution, progress, and positive change. These creeds and institutions were invaluable in providing structure, guidance, and a sense of unity to collective endeavors. Take, for example, the early development of religious or political institutions. In their infancy, these systems acted as pillars of morality, social cohesion, and governance, shaping the very foundations upon which civilizations were built. Their significance cannot be underestimated, as they provided the necessary framework for societal functioning and advancement.However, as time progressed, these same creeds and institutions that once served as catalysts for growth began to lose their efficacy. This transition from invaluable to deadly can partly be attributed to the mere passage of time, as societies evolve, circumstances change, and new challenges and complexities arise. What was once a progressive and adaptive belief system or institution becomes rigid, unable to accommodate the evolving needs of individuals and the broader society. The inability to adapt to changing times often leads to stifled growth, conflicts, and eventually, the erosion of the very foundations these creeds and institutions were built upon.To understand this phenomenon from a philosophical standpoint, it is intriguing to explore the concept of dialectical materialism. Proposed by Karl Marx, dialectical materialism suggests that societal progress is driven by the conflict between opposing forces, leading to a dynamic process of change and development. Applying this concept to Bagehot's quote, we can view the rise and fall of creeds and institutions as a result of this ever-present tension between the established order and the demands for progress and innovation.In the dialectical process, the initial creed or institution represents the thesis, embodying the prevailing beliefs and norms of a particular time. As individuals within society begin to confront the limitations and contradictions inherent in the established order, an antithesis emerges, challenging the existing hegemony and calling for change. These conflicts, whether cultural, political, or ideological, precipitate a synthesis, a new creed or institution that aims to reconcile the opposing forces.In light of this philosophical lens, we can revisit the historical examples mentioned earlier. The rise of religious institutions across different civilizations represents theses that provided moral guidance and a sense of purpose. However, as conflicts of interpretation and power struggles emerged within these institutions, the antithesis emerged in the form of philosophical and ideological movements that sought to challenge the status quo. The synthesis that followed led to new forms of spirituality and governance, adapting to the changing needs of society while retaining certain core values.By understanding the cyclical nature of civilization through the lens of dialectical materialism, we gain insights into why creeds and institutions that were once invaluable can become deadly. The failure to recognize and adapt to the evolving complexities of society often leads to the stagnation, decay, and eventual demise of these belief systems and structures. It is the inability or reluctance to undergo the necessary synthesis, to integrate new perspectives and adapt to changing times, that renders once invaluable creeds and institutions harmful and obsolete.In conclusion, Walter Bagehot's quote serves as a profound reminder of the cyclic nature of civilization, where creeds and institutions that were once invaluable can eventually become deadly. By delving deeper into the complexities of this historical phenomenon, and introducing the concept of dialectical materialism, we gain a better understanding of the underlying reasons for this paradoxical trajectory of human progress. It is in our capacity to recognize and embrace the need for synthesis, to adapt and evolve in the face of changing circumstances, that we avoid the deadly consequences of stagnation and ensure the continued advancement of our societies.