5 Quotes & Sayings By Joost Am Meerloo

Dr. Joost A.M. Meerloo is widely recognized as one of the most important figures in modern Dutch history. He was born in Rotterdam on December 8, 1901, and died in The Hague on March 24, 2002 Read more

Meerloo was not only a famous historian and essayist, but also an author of international renown. He had more than 150 books published, including numerous works on the Netherlands' turbulent 20th century roots; his memoirs form an essential part of modern Dutch culture; his essays are still widely quoted; and he built up an international reputation as a writer of high literary quality.

1
Freedom and respect for the individual are rooted in the Old Testament, which convinced man that he makes his own history, that he is responsible for his history. Such freedom implies that a man throws off his inertia, that he does not cling arbitrarily to tradition, that he strives knowledge and accepts moral responsibility. The fear of freedom is the fear of assuming responsibility. Freedom can never be completely safeguarded by rules and laws. It is as much dependent on courage, integrity, and responsibility of each of us as it is on these qualities in those who govern. Every trait in us and our leaders which points to passive submission to mere power betrays democratic freedom. Joost A.M. Meerloo
2
We live in a world of constant noise which captures our minds even when we are not aware of it Joost A.M. Meerloo
3
Free man needs loyalty to the self first of all, and this implies the right to be himself Joost A.M. Meerloo
4
Delusions, carefully implanted, are difficult to correct. Joost A.M. Meerloo