We are born princes and the civilizing process makes us frogs. – Syrus

[M]odern man is just ancient man – with way better electronics. – Author unknown, “A Short History of Breakfast,” from a Jack in the Box tray line

Is civilization only a higher form of idolatry, that man should bow down to a flesh-brush, to flannels, to baths, diet, exercise, and air? – Mary Baker Eddy

Is man’s civilization only a wrappage, through which the savage nature of him can still burst, infernal as ever? – Thomas Carlyle, The French Revolution, vol III, book V, chapter 7