Meaning: The quote "Every generation tries to put its doctrine on a high shelf where the children can not reach it" by Walter Rauschenbusch, a theologian and key figure in the Social Gospel movement, encapsulates the idea that societal norms and beliefs are often preserved and upheld by older generations, making it challenging for younger generations to access and understand them. Rauschenbusch's quote reflects the notion that each generation seeks to protect and preserve its values and ideologies, sometimes at the expense of allowing the younger generation to fully engage with and understand them. This quote can be interpreted in various contexts, such as religious, political, and cultural, and it speaks to the challenges of intergenerational communication and understanding.

The idea of placing doctrines on a high shelf can be understood as a metaphor for making certain beliefs and values inaccessible or difficult to grasp for the younger generation. The "high shelf" represents a symbolic barrier that prevents the easy transfer of knowledge and understanding from one generation to the next. This barrier may arise from a desire to protect cherished beliefs from being questioned or undermined, or from a lack of effort to engage in meaningful dialogue with younger individuals.

Rauschenbusch's quote suggests that there is a deliberate effort on the part of older generations to maintain a distance between their doctrines and the younger generation. This can result in a lack of transparency and open discourse, hindering the ability of younger individuals to fully comprehend and engage with the beliefs and values of their predecessors. Furthermore, it implies a certain level of exclusivity and elitism in preserving these doctrines on a high shelf, indicating a reluctance to share or democratize knowledge and understanding.

The phrase "where the children can not reach it" underscores the notion of inaccessibility and exclusion. Children, in this context, represent the younger generation and their inability to access the doctrines and ideologies of their predecessors. This lack of access may lead to a sense of disconnect and alienation, as well as a potential erosion of continuity and understanding between different generations.

In a broader sense, Rauschenbusch's quote highlights the importance of fostering intergenerational dialogue and understanding. It serves as a reminder that the preservation of doctrines and values should not come at the cost of isolating and alienating younger individuals. Instead, there is a need for active efforts to bridge the gap between generations, facilitate open communication, and promote a deeper understanding of the beliefs and values that shape our societies.

In conclusion, Walter Rauschenbusch's quote "Every generation tries to put its doctrine on a high shelf where the children can not reach it" sheds light on the challenges of intergenerational communication and understanding. It underscores the need for greater openness, transparency, and inclusivity in preserving and transmitting societal doctrines and values. By recognizing and addressing the barriers that impede the transfer of knowledge and understanding between generations, we can work towards creating a more cohesive and interconnected society.