Meaning: The quote by Theodore Dreiser speaks to the transitional nature of human civilization, suggesting that it is neither fully guided by instinct nor fully guided by reason. This observation invites us to reflect on the complex and evolving nature of human society, and the challenges and opportunities that arise from this transitional state.

At the heart of Dreiser's quote is the idea that human civilization exists in a liminal space, caught between the primal, instinctual drives that have historically governed our behavior and the rational, intellectual capacities that distinguish us as a species. By characterizing our civilization as "scarcely beast" and "scarcely human," Dreiser points to the paradoxical nature of our existence, highlighting the tension between our animalistic impulses and our aspirations for higher reasoning and moral conduct.

One interpretation of this quote is that Dreiser is suggesting that while we have made significant progress in transcending our primal instincts, we have not yet fully embraced reason and rationality as the guiding principles of our civilization. This speaks to the ongoing struggle to reconcile our innate inclinations with the demands of a complex, interconnected world. It also raises questions about the extent to which our actions are driven by conscious thought and ethical deliberation, as opposed to unconscious impulses and societal conditioning.

Dreiser's observation about the transitional nature of our civilization also prompts us to consider the implications of this state of liminality. On one hand, it suggests that we are in a state of flux, with the potential for further evolution and development towards a more rational, ethical, and harmonious society. On the other hand, it acknowledges the persistent influence of our primal instincts, reminding us that our journey towards greater rationality and moral conduct is an ongoing and challenging process.

From a historical perspective, Dreiser's quote can be seen as reflective of the tensions and contradictions that have characterized human civilization throughout the ages. The advancement of science, technology, and philosophical thought has undoubtedly propelled us towards greater rationality and self-awareness. However, the darker aspects of human nature, such as greed, violence, and tribalism, continue to exert a powerful influence on our collective behavior, often undermining our aspirations for progress and enlightenment.

Furthermore, Dreiser's quote invites us to reflect on the role of literature and art in illuminating the complexities of the human condition. As a novelist, Dreiser was keenly attuned to the psychological and moral dimensions of human experience, and his work often grappled with the conflicting forces of instinct and reason in shaping individual lives and societal dynamics. In this sense, his quote can be seen as a reflection of the broader thematic concerns that permeate his literary oeuvre.

In conclusion, Theodore Dreiser's quote offers a thought-provoking commentary on the transitional nature of human civilization, capturing the tension between our instinctual drives and our aspirations for reason and ethical conduct. By acknowledging the liminal state of our civilization, Dreiser encourages us to critically examine the complex interplay of primal impulses and rational thought that shapes our individual and collective existence. Moreover, his quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities inherent in our quest for greater self-awareness, moral progress, and social harmony.