The quote suggests that to truly improve humanity, moralists—or anyone striving for social change—should focus on presenting an ideal vision of what it means to be human, rather than simply reflecting the flaws and shortcomings of people as they are. This perspective emphasizes the importance of setting high standards and aspirations. By showcasing an aspirational image of humanity, individuals can be inspired to strive towards those ideals, fostering growth and development.
At its core, this idea revolves around the concept that people often rise to meet expectations. When they see a blueprint for their best selves—exemplified by virtues like kindness, integrity, courage, and compassion—they may feel motivated to pursue these qualities. It’s about cultivating hope and possibility rather than resignation or cynicism.
In today’s world, this principle can be applied in various ways:
1. **Education**: Educators can emphasize not just what students currently know but also their potential. By encouraging creativity and critical thinking alongside academic rigor, teachers help students envision a future where they excel in ways that contribute positively to society.
2. **Leadership**: Leaders in any sector—businesses, communities, or governments—can inspire change by articulating a clear vision of what success looks like; focusing on values such as collaboration or sustainability encourages others to align with those goals instead of merely accepting the status quo.
3. **Personal Development**: On an individual level, self-help methodologies often encourage people not just to identify their weaknesses but also visualize their strengths and desired traits they aspire to embody. This approach fosters resilience and a proactive attitude toward personal growth.
4. **Media Representation**: In media narratives—from films to literature—the portrayal of characters who exhibit ethical behavior or overcome adversity creates role models for viewers/readers who may draw inspiration from these stories while navigating their own challenges.
In essence, looking at how we “ought” to be invites us into a dialogue about values and ethics rooted in our shared humanity—and encourages collective efforts toward improvement rather than dwelling on current failings alone. While acknowledging reality is important for understanding context or addressing issues effectively (like inequality or injustice), it is through aspiration that transformation becomes possible both individually and collectively.