Enjoy the best George Bernard Shaw Quotes. Quotations by George Bernard Shaw (Playwright, Critic, Polemicist, Political Activist) Jul 26, 1856 - Nov 02, 1950
The power of accurate observation is commonly called cynicism by those who have not got it.
The greatest sin toward our fellow creatures is not to hate them, but to be indifferent to them; that's the essence of inhumanity.
A gentleman is one who puts more into the world than he takes out.
The people who get on in this world are the people who get up and look for the circumstances they want, and, if they can't find them, make them.
You see things; and you say 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say 'Why not?'
A life spent making mistakes is not only more honorable but more useful than a life spent doing nothing.
Success does not consist in never making mistakes but in never making the same one a second time.
The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.
Beware of false knowledge; it is more dangerous than ignorance.
Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.
The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.
“You see things; and you say “Why?” But I dream things that never were; and I say “Why not?””
George Bernard Shaw (1856-1950) was an Irish playwright, critic, and polemicist renowned for his wit, intelligence, and unyielding advocacy for social and political reform. With a prolific body of work that spans more than sixty years, Shaw left an indelible mark on the literary and theatrical landscape of the early 20th century.
Born in Dublin, Ireland, Shaw grew up in a modest middle-class family. His education was irregular, but he developed a voracious appetite for reading and self-education, which served as the foundation for his intellectual prowess. Shaw began his career as a music and theater critic, where his sharp wit and incisive commentary garnered attention.
However, it was Shaw's foray into playwriting that catapulted him to international fame. His plays, characterized by their sharp dialogue, engaging characters, and exploration of social issues, challenged the conventional norms of the time. Notable works include "Pygmalion," "Man and Superman," and "Saint Joan," which earned him the prestigious Nobel Prize in Literature in 1925.
Shaw's plays often tackled contentious topics, such as class struggle, women's rights, and capitalism, with biting satire and provocative insights. He used his plays as a platform for social criticism, weaving political and philosophical ideas into his narratives. Shaw believed in the power of art to challenge societal norms and provoke meaningful change, making him a prominent figure in the realm of social commentary.
Beyond his literary accomplishments, Shaw was an ardent socialist and a fervent advocate for various causes. He championed women's suffrage, advocating for gender equality long before it gained widespread acceptance. Shaw was also an early advocate for vegetarianism and promoted the idea of a meatless diet for ethical and health reasons.
His influence extended beyond the realm of theater, as Shaw was a prominent figure in public debates and political discourse. He engaged in spirited debates with contemporaries such as Winston Churchill and H.G. Wells, often challenging prevailing ideologies and advocating for progressive reforms.
George Bernard Shaw's impact on the literary world and society at large cannot be overstated. His sharp wit, uncompromising convictions, and literary prowess continue to inspire generations of artists, thinkers, and activists. Through his plays, essays, and speeches, Shaw sought to challenge the status quo, ignite critical thinking, and push for a fairer, more equitable world. Today, his legacy stands as a testament to the power of art, intellect, and activism in shaping the world we live in.