The quote “Certainly in each social period, youth must be made to venerate the dominant absurdities” suggests that every generation is conditioned to accept and even revere the prevailing beliefs, norms, and practices of their time, even when those may seem irrational or nonsensical. This concept highlights how society shapes the perceptions and values of young people, often encouraging them to adopt ideas that might not withstand critical scrutiny.
On a deeper level, this statement reflects a critique of social conformity and the pressures exerted on youth to align with mainstream ideologies. Throughout history, there have been numerous instances where young people have been led to idolize ideas or systems—such as nationalism during wartime or consumerism in modern capitalist cultures—that could be considered absurd when viewed objectively. The term “venerate” implies a sense of reverence or worship; thus, it underscores how deeply these notions can become ingrained in societal fabric.
In today’s world, this idea can be applied across various contexts such as technology usage among youth who may venerate social media platforms despite their potential risks like mental health issues or privacy concerns. Young individuals often feel compelled to conform to online trends without fully questioning their implications. Similarly, they might embrace climate change denial or other controversial beliefs simply because these views are prevalent within certain circles.
From a personal development perspective, recognizing this conditioning process is crucial for fostering critical thinking skills. Individuals can benefit from questioning societal norms rather than accepting them blindly; by doing so, they gain agency over their beliefs and values. Encouraging self-reflection allows one not only to understand what dominant absurdities exist but also why they arise—often rooted in fear of exclusion or desire for acceptance.
Thus, cultivating an awareness of these dynamics equips individuals with tools for making more informed choices about what they choose to value and follow throughout their lives—leading ultimately towards authenticity rather than mere conformity. It invites everyone—especially young people—to challenge prevailing narratives in pursuit of understanding themselves better rather than simply adopting what society imposes upon them.