Meaning: The quote "To realize that new world we must prefer the values of freedom and equality above all other values - above personal wealth, technical power and nationalism" by Herbert Read encapsulates a profound message about the fundamental principles that should guide our society and the pursuit of a better world. Herbert Read, a poet and an influential advocate for the arts, education, and social reform, emphasizes the primacy of freedom and equality as the foundational values that should take precedence over personal wealth, technical power, and nationalism.

In this quote, Read challenges the prevailing priorities and values that often dominate societies, urging individuals and communities to prioritize freedom and equality as the guiding principles for building a new world. The emphasis on freedom speaks to the intrinsic rights and liberties that all individuals should possess, encompassing the freedom of expression, thought, and action. Equality, on the other hand, underscores the importance of a fair and just society where all individuals are provided with equal opportunities and treatment, regardless of their background, identity, or status.

By advocating for the prioritization of freedom and equality above personal wealth, Read highlights the need to shift the focus from individual material accumulation to the collective well-being of society. In many societies, the pursuit of personal wealth and material success often takes precedence over broader social concerns, leading to inequality and social injustices. Read's quote challenges this mindset, suggesting that the values of freedom and equality should be valued and upheld above the pursuit of personal wealth.

Furthermore, Read's assertion that freedom and equality should be preferred above technical power underscores the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancements. While technical power can bring about progress and innovation, it also has the capacity to infringe upon individual freedoms and exacerbate societal inequalities. By prioritizing freedom and equality, society can ensure that technological advancements are harnessed for the collective benefit and do not compromise essential human rights.

In addition, the quote's rejection of nationalism as a primary value reflects Read's stance against the divisive and often exclusionary nature of nationalistic ideologies. By emphasizing freedom and equality over nationalism, Read advocates for a more inclusive and interconnected global community that prioritizes cooperation and mutual respect among diverse nations and peoples.

Overall, Herbert Read's quote serves as a powerful call to action, urging individuals and societies to reevaluate their priorities and embrace the values of freedom and equality as paramount. In a world where personal wealth, technical power, and nationalism often take precedence, Read's message resonates as a reminder of the essential principles that should guide the construction of a more just, equitable, and harmonious society. By placing freedom and equality above all other values, we are challenged to envision and work towards a new world where the rights and dignity of every individual are upheld and celebrated.

In conclusion, Herbert Read's quote encapsulates a timeless and universal message about the foundational values that should guide our collective endeavors. The prioritization of freedom and equality above personal wealth, technical power, and nationalism serves as a poignant reminder of the essential principles that should underpin a just and equitable society. As we navigate the complexities of our modern world, Read's words resonate as a call to uphold and champion the values that are fundamental to the realization of a more inclusive, compassionate, and harmonious new world.