What humanity abhors, custom reconciles and recommends to us.
What humanity abhors, custom reconciles and recommends to us.

What humanity abhors, custom reconciles and recommends to us.

John Locke

The quote “What humanity abhors, custom reconciles and recommends to us” suggests that there are certain behaviors or norms that, at first glance, might seem repugnant or unacceptable to people. However, over time and through the influence of societal customs and traditions, these same behaviors can become normalized or even accepted. Essentially, it highlights the power of cultural conditioning—the way in which societies shape our perceptions of right and wrong.

At its core, this idea points to the fluid nature of morality and social values. What one generation finds abhorrent can become commonplace for another; practices such as slavery or gender discrimination were once widely accepted in some cultures but are now recognized as unjust. This evolution showcases how customs can mitigate initial discomfort with particular actions by framing them within a broader context that makes them seem acceptable.

In today’s world, we see this concept manifesting in various ways. Consider how attitudes toward issues such as mental health have shifted over recent decades. Once stigmatized and often ignored, discussions around mental health have become more normalized as societal awareness grows—thanks largely to changing customs around openness and vulnerability.

From a personal development perspective, acknowledging this idea invites individuals to critically examine their beliefs against the backdrop of societal norms. It encourages self-reflection: Are there practices or mindsets you’ve internalized simply because they were deemed acceptable by your culture? Recognizing this can lead to significant personal growth—challenging outdated beliefs allows for more authentic living aligned with one’s values rather than uncritical adherence to tradition.

Applying this idea further involves actively questioning societal norms that may feel uncomfortable but could be beneficial if reevaluated—such as embracing vulnerability in relationships or pursuing unconventional career paths despite potential judgment from others. By doing so thoughtfully—and being open-minded about what “custom” suggests is acceptable—we pave the way for deeper understanding both within ourselves and within society at large.

Ultimately, reflecting on how customs shape our moral landscape reminds us that change is possible; it’s an invitation not only to challenge prevailing norms when necessary but also to embrace new perspectives that promote empathy and understanding across diverse experiences.

Created with ❤️ | ©2025 HiveHarbor | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer| Imprint | Opt-out Preferences

 

Log in with your credentials

Forgot your details?