The oblivion, and I'll say even the historical error, are a key factor in the creation of a nation, to the extent that the progress of historical studies is often a danger to nationality.

Ernest Renan
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The oblivion, and I'll say even the historical error, are a key factor in the creation of a nation, to the extent that the progress of historical studies is often a danger to nationality. To paraphrase, it is dangerous to be critical about one’s own culture. It can be considered traitorous or elitist. The problem here is that while you are maintaining your own identity, it is possible to lose sight of others.

Source: Questce Quune Nation?

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More Quotes By Ernest Renan
  1. The oblivion, and I'll say even the historical error, are a key factor in the creation of a nation, to the extent that the progress of historical studies is often a danger to nationality.
  2. Woe to him who becomes useless to human progress!
  3. Islam has been liberal when it has been weak and violent when it has been strong.
  4. The simplest schoolboy is now familiar with truths for which Archimedes would have sacrificed his life.
  5. Man makes holy what he believes as he makes beautiful what he loves.
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