Theodore Roosevelt: 'The reactionary is always willing to take a progressive attitude on any issue that is dead.'

The reactionary is always willing to take a progressive attitude on any issue that is dead.

The quote by Theodore Roosevelt, "The reactionary is always willing to take a progressive attitude on any issue that is dead," carries a profound meaning and importance. In a straightforward sense, the quote suggests that individuals who oppose change or reform are often only open to embracing progressive ideas when they no longer pose a threat to the existing order. Roosevelt's words shed light on the tendencies of those who resist change and how they are quick to adapt to new ideas once they are no longer a catalyst for transformation. However, let's delve into a philosophical concept to bring a fresh perspective to this quote.To understand this concept, we'll explore the contrast between constructivist and essentialist philosophies. Constructivism proposes that reality is socially constructed, shaped by our thoughts, beliefs, and experiences. Essentialism, on the other hand, posits that there are inherent, unchanging properties in the world which determine the nature of things. Applying this contrast to Roosevelt's quote, the reactionary can be seen as being grounded in an essentialist worldview, where they resist change because they perceive it as a threat to the essential nature of their beliefs or society.Essentialist thinkers often hold traditional values and views, finding comfort in stability and resisting any alteration to the status quo. They believe that certain principles are fundamental and timeless. Therefore, when confronted with a progressive issue that is alive, that challenges those principles and beliefs, they are more likely to react strongly against it. Their response is driven by a fear of disrupting the essential nature of whatever they hold dear.However, when a progressive issue becomes "dead," or no longer poses a direct threat to their fundamental beliefs, the essentialist may be more willing to adopt a progressive viewpoint. This shift occurs because the essentialist perceives the issue as having lost its transformative potential, rendering it safe to assimilate within the existing belief framework. Consequently, the reactionary assumes a progressive attitude, not because they genuinely embrace change, but because the issue has lost its capacity for disruption.In contrast, constructivists approach the world with a focus on the roles of perception, interpretation, and context in shaping reality. For them, progress is not antithetical to the existing order but rather a continuous process that allows for growth and adaptation. Contrary to the essentialist's reluctance, constructivists tend to be more open and accepting of change, seeing it as a means for improvement and development.The quote by Roosevelt highlights the reactionary's tendency to adapt a progressive stance only when the issue at hand is no longer a current threat to their cherished principles. It underscores the inherent difference between essentialist and constructivist mindsets, revealing the underlying motivations behind their varying reactions to progress and change.In conclusion, Roosevelt's quote serves as a poignant reminder of how the reactionary approach often masks a deeper fear of destabilizing the essential principles they hold dear. It sheds light on the contrast between the essentialist and constructivist perspectives, revealing the reactionary's inclination to adopt a progressive attitude when the issue is no longer alive and transformative. Understanding these dynamics can help us better navigate and facilitate meaningful progress and change in society.