Human beings do not carry civilization in their genes. All that we do carry in our genes are certain capacities- the capacity to learn to walk upright, to use our brains, to speak, to relate to our fellow men, to construct and use tools, to explore the universe, and to express that exploration in religion, in art, in science, in philosophy.
Margaret MeadThe assumption that men were created equal, with an equal ability to make an effort and win an earthly reward, although denied every day by experience, is maintained every day by our folklore and our daydreams.
Margaret MeadThe prophet who fails to present a bearable alternative and yet preaches doom is part of the trap that he postulates.
Margaret MeadMan's most human characteristic is not his ability to learn, which he shares with many other species, but his ability to teach and store what others have developed and taught him.
Margaret MeadThe anonymity of the city is one of its strengths as well as - carried too far - one of its weaknesses.
Margaret Mead