A hostility to modernity is shared by ideologies that have nothing else in common - a nostalgia for moral clarity, small-town intimacy, family values, primitive communism, ecological sustainability, communitarian solidarity, or harmonies with the rhythms of nature.

Steven Pinker’s quote examines the criticism and rejection of modernity across diverse ideologies. By stating, “A hostility to modernity is shared by ideologies that have nothing else in common,” he points out that movements and belief systems with contradictory goals can be united by their skepticism or disdain for modern life. This hostility reflects a perceived loss of simplicity, tradition, or meaning in an era of rapid change, technology, and globalization.

The origin of the quote lies in Pinker’s analysis of cultural and intellectual trends, often discussed in his works on human progress and Enlightenment values. When he lists “a nostalgia for moral clarity, small-town intimacy, family values, primitive communism, ecological sustainability, communitarian solidarity, or harmonies with the rhythms of nature,” he illustrates the varied motivations behind the critique of modernity. These concepts span political, cultural, and environmental perspectives, showing that opposition to modern progress is not confined to a single ideology or group.

The quote also highlights the emotional appeal of the past. Words like “nostalgia” and “harmony with the rhythms of nature” suggest that many anti-modern sentiments are driven by longing for perceived simplicity or purity, whether through traditional family structures, tight-knit communities, or ecological balance. Pinker’s observation implies that such romanticized visions of the past can fuel resistance to modern innovation, even if practical realities were often harsher than remembered.

Ultimately, Pinker’s statement is a reflection on the paradox of modern life. While modernity brings comfort, progress, and knowledge, it also provokes anxieties about disconnection, moral ambiguity, and cultural change. His quote underscores the common psychological thread linking diverse ideological critiques, revealing that the yearning for clarity and community often stands in tension with the complexities of modern society.