The less there is to justify a traditional custom, the harder it is to get rid of it

What did Mark Twain mean by:

The less there is to justify a traditional custom, the harder it is to get rid of it

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This quote is an exploration of the power of tradition and habit. It suggests that even when there is little to no logical reason to continue a traditional custom, it can be incredibly difficult to change or eliminate it. This is because traditions often have a deeply rooted emotional or psychological hold over individuals or societies, which can make them resistant to change, even when that change may be beneficial or necessary.

The quote can be seen as a commentary on human nature’s tendency to resist change. We often cling to the familiar, even when it doesn’t serve us well. This can be seen in a variety of contexts, from societal norms and practices, to personal habits and routines.

In the context of today’s world, the quote could be applied to many areas. For example, in the realm of environmental conservation, many harmful practices continue despite the knowledge that they are damaging to the planet. These include things like excessive use of plastic, reliance on fossil fuels, and overconsumption of resources. Despite the evidence and the urgent calls for change, these practices persist largely because they are traditional or habitual.

In terms of personal development, the quote speaks to the challenge of changing deeply ingrained habits. For instance, someone trying to improve their health might struggle to change dietary habits that have been ingrained since childhood. Even when they know these habits are harmful, the comfort and familiarity of tradition can make change difficult.

In both cases, the quote suggests that recognizing the power of tradition and habit is an important step in creating meaningful change. It’s not enough to simply know that a change is needed; we must also understand and address the emotional and psychological attachments that can keep us tied to harmful or unhelpful practices.

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