Meaning: The quote "Generalizations, like brooms, ought not to stand in a corner forever; they ought to sweep as a matter of course" by John Lukacs encapsulates the idea that generalizations should not be stagnant or static but should be actively utilized and applied. John Lukacs, a Hungarian-born American historian and author, was known for his insightful and thought-provoking views on history and human nature. In this quote, he draws an analogy between generalizations and brooms, suggesting that both should be put to use rather than left idle.

The comparison of generalizations to brooms is particularly intriguing. Brooms are tools designed for sweeping and cleaning, and they are most effective when put into action. Similarly, generalizations are broad statements or ideas that are often derived from specific instances or observations. They can be powerful tools for understanding and interpreting the world around us, but like brooms, they are meant to be active and dynamic rather than passive and inert.

When Lukacs mentions that generalizations "ought to sweep as a matter of course," he implies that they should be put to use naturally and routinely. This suggests that generalizations should not be blindly accepted or applied without consideration, but rather should be actively employed in the process of understanding and navigating the complexities of the world. Just as brooms are used to sweep away dirt and debris, generalizations can be used to sift through information, identify patterns, and gain insights into various phenomena.

It's important to note that generalizations, like brooms, can be both useful and potentially problematic. On one hand, they can help us make sense of the world by providing a framework for understanding and categorizing information. They can also be efficient and practical, allowing us to make quick decisions and assessments based on limited information. However, generalizations can also be oversimplified and misleading, leading to stereotypes and misconceptions.

In this light, Lukacs' quote serves as a reminder that while generalizations can be powerful tools, they should be wielded with care and discernment. Rather than allowing them to gather dust in a corner, we should actively engage with them, critically evaluating their accuracy and relevance in different contexts. This requires a willingness to challenge and refine our generalizations as we encounter new information and experiences, much like regularly using a broom to keep our surroundings clean and tidy.

Furthermore, the quote also speaks to the concept of intellectual flexibility and open-mindedness. By likening generalizations to brooms that should sweep as a matter of course, Lukacs encourages a mindset that is receptive to new information and willing to adapt its understanding based on new evidence. Just as a broom adapts to the contours of the floor it sweeps, our generalizations should adapt to the nuances and complexities of the world around us.

In conclusion, John Lukacs' quote about generalizations and brooms offers a compelling metaphor for the active and dynamic use of broad statements and ideas. It prompts us to consider how we engage with generalizations, emphasizing the importance of using them as tools for understanding and navigating the world, rather than allowing them to remain stagnant and unexamined. By embracing a mindset that actively applies and reevaluates generalizations, we can strive for a more nuanced and accurate understanding of the world around us.