Meaning: Jasmine Guy, best known for her role as Whitley Gilbert in the popular 90s TV show "A Different World," made a thought-provoking statement about the evolution of ideas and perspectives in society. The quote, "As the middle begins to feel safe enough to accept some of the so-called radical thinking, ideas move to the middle and a new edge is created," captures the essence of how societal norms and attitudes change over time.

This quote speaks to the idea that progress and change often stem from the acceptance and integration of once-radical or unconventional ideas into the mainstream. It suggests that as the middle ground of society becomes more open and receptive to new and unconventional thinking, these ideas gradually become more widely accepted, pushing the boundaries of what is considered the norm and creating a new edge or frontier of thought and action.

In the context of social change and progress, this quote highlights the importance of challenging conventional thinking and pushing the boundaries of what is deemed acceptable. It suggests that the evolution of ideas and perspectives is not a linear process, but rather a dynamic and ever-changing interplay between radical thought and mainstream acceptance.

Throughout history, we can observe numerous examples of once-radical ideas becoming integrated into the fabric of society. Movements for civil rights, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation have all challenged established norms and pushed the boundaries of acceptable discourse. Over time, many of these once-radical ideas have gained widespread acceptance, leading to significant social and legislative change.

The quote also underscores the role of the middle ground in driving societal progress. While radical thinkers and activists often play a crucial role in advocating for change, it is ultimately the willingness of the broader population to embrace new ideas that facilitates meaningful transformation. As the quote suggests, when the middle ground becomes receptive to radical thinking, it sets in motion a process of mainstreaming once-outré ideas, ultimately reshaping the societal landscape.

Moreover, the quote speaks to the cyclical nature of societal change. As new ideas become mainstream, they in turn create a new edge or frontier, prompting further radical thinking and innovation. This ongoing cycle of challenging norms and pushing boundaries is integral to the evolution of society and its values.

In a broader sense, Jasmine Guy's quote can also be applied to fields beyond social change, such as art, technology, and science. In these domains, breakthroughs often emerge from the fringes of conventional thought and gradually make their way into the mainstream, reshaping the boundaries of what is considered possible or acceptable.

In conclusion, Jasmine Guy's quote encapsulates the dynamic interplay between radical thinking and mainstream acceptance in driving societal change and progress. It emphasizes the pivotal role of the middle ground in embracing new ideas and pushing the boundaries of what is considered acceptable, ultimately shaping the evolution of societal norms and values. The quote serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of ideas and perspectives, highlighting the importance of challenging established norms and fostering a culture of openness and innovation.