Americans have been conditioned to respect newness, whatever it costs them.

The quote, "Americans have been conditioned to respect newness, whatever it costs them," reflects John Updike’s critique of consumer culture and societal values. Updike, a celebrated novelist and essayist, often examined the nuances of American life, including its obsessions with materialism, novelty, and progress. Here, he points out that Americans tend to prioritize the new or modern, sometimes at the expense of tradition, wisdom, or personal well-being, suggesting a cultural tendency to equate newness with value.

The origin of this quote lies in Updike’s observations of post-World War II America, a period marked by rapid technological innovation, consumerism, and the rise of advertising. During this era, society increasingly celebrated the latest gadgets, fashions, and trends, often disregarding quality, longevity, or historical significance. By highlighting this behavior, Updike critiques how Americans have been socially conditioned to chase novelty, even when it comes at a personal or societal cost.

At its core, the quote serves as a reflection on cultural priorities and human behavior. Updike encourages readers to question the automatic admiration of the “new” and to consider the true value and substance behind what society elevates. It’s a reminder that novelty alone does not guarantee worth or significance, and that discerning judgment is necessary to balance progress with meaningful tradition.

Ultimately, this quote underscores Updike’s broader concerns about consumerism, conformity, and cultural influence. By observing the American fixation on novelty, he challenges individuals to resist blind adherence to trends, to think critically, and to recognize that true respect should be earned through merit and substance, not merely through being new or fashionable.