Meaning: The quote by Alexander Herzen, a Russian journalist and thinker, reflects his deep concern and disappointment with the state of modern society. In this quote, Herzen expresses his horror at the apparent lack of emotional depth, intellectual curiosity, and passion in contemporary individuals. He criticizes the narrowness of their perspectives and the feebleness of their thoughts. Herzen's words resonate with a sense of disillusionment and a call for a more profound engagement with life and the world.

Alexander Herzen lived during a time of significant social, political, and cultural upheaval in Russia and Europe. Born in 1812, he witnessed the tumultuous events of the 19th century, including the abolition of serfdom in Russia, the revolutions of 1848, and the rise of industrialization and capitalism. As a journalist and public intellectual, Herzen was deeply engaged in the debates and struggles of his era, and his writings often reflected his critical observations of the society around him.

Herzen's concerns about the "absence of feeling" in modern man point to a perceived lack of empathy and emotional connection in contemporary society. He seems to lament the apparent indifference or emotional detachment that he observes in people, suggesting that they may be disconnected from their own emotions and those of others. This critique could be seen as a response to the increasing individualism and materialism that accompanied the rise of capitalism and the industrial revolution. Herzen may have feared that the pursuit of wealth and success was leading people to neglect their deeper emotional and moral responsibilities.

Furthermore, Herzen's reference to the "narrowness of outlook" highlights his criticism of the limited perspectives and closed-mindedness that he perceives in modern individuals. This narrowness may stem from a variety of factors, including social and cultural conditioning, ideological dogmatism, and the influence of mass media. Herzen seems to be calling for a broader, more open-minded approach to life and ideas, suggesting that a lack of intellectual curiosity and openness hinders personal and societal growth.

The "lack of passion and information" mentioned in the quote speaks to Herzen's concern about the apathy and ignorance that he sees in modern society. He may be troubled by the absence of a fervent commitment to meaningful pursuits and causes, as well as the prevalence of misinformation and superficial knowledge. Herzen appears to be advocating for a more engaged, informed, and passionate approach to life, one that is driven by a genuine thirst for knowledge and a deep sense of purpose.

Lastly, Herzen's critique of the "feebleness of thought" reflects his dissatisfaction with the quality of intellectual discourse and critical thinking in modern times. He may be troubled by the prevalence of shallow, unexamined opinions and the lack of rigorous, independent thought. Herzen's call for greater intellectual rigor and depth suggests a desire for a more thoughtful and reflective society, one that values intellectual inquiry and reasoned debate.

In conclusion, Alexander Herzen's quote reflects his profound concerns about the state of modern man, highlighting perceived deficiencies in emotional depth, intellectual curiosity, passion, and critical thinking. His words serve as a reminder of the importance of emotional engagement, intellectual openness, and a passionate pursuit of knowledge and meaning in shaping a more vibrant and fulfilling society. Herzen's critique continues to resonate as a call for individuals to strive for a more profound and meaningful existence.