Meaning: This quote by Robert Hewison, a British cultural historian, encapsulates a powerful message about the value of innovation, progress, and creativity in our society. In essence, Hewison suggests that if we are only able to offer an improved version of the past, then our current state will always be inferior to the past. He warns against being hypnotized by images of the past, as this fixation can hinder our capacity for creative change and ultimately impede progress.

Hewison's quote invites us to reflect on the nature of progress and change. It challenges the notion that improvement alone is sufficient for advancement, emphasizing the importance of originality and innovation in shaping a better future. The idea that today should not be inferior to yesterday implies that each day should bring new ideas, developments, and advancements that surpass the achievements of the past.

In contemporary society, the pressure to build upon existing concepts and technologies often leads to incremental improvements rather than groundbreaking innovations. This can result in a sense of stagnation, where the status quo is perpetuated and genuine progress is hindered. Hewison's quote acts as a call to action, urging individuals and society as a whole to break free from the allure of the past and embrace the potential for creative change.

Furthermore, the concept of being "hypnotized by images of the past" speaks to the phenomenon of nostalgia and its impact on our collective mindset. Nostalgia has the power to romanticize the past, creating an idealized version of bygone eras and blurring the lines between reality and perception. Such fixation on the past can lead to a reluctance to embrace new ideas and can stifle the courage to venture into uncharted territory.

Hewison's perspective is particularly relevant in today's rapidly evolving world, where technological advancements and societal shifts are reshaping the way we live, work, and interact. As the pace of change accelerates, it becomes increasingly important to challenge the notion that improved versions of the past are sufficient for progress. Instead, we must harness our capacity for creative change to drive innovation and bring about meaningful transformation.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the inherent value of creativity and originality in driving progress. It emphasizes that true advancement lies in the ability to break free from the confines of tradition and envision new possibilities. By encouraging a departure from the familiar and the known, Hewison's quote advocates for a mindset that embraces experimentation, risk-taking, and the pursuit of uncharted paths.

In conclusion, Robert Hewison's quote offers a thought-provoking perspective on the nature of progress and change. It challenges us to reevaluate our relationship with the past, urging us to break free from its hold and embrace the potential for creative innovation. By recognizing the limitations of simply improving upon the past, we open ourselves up to the boundless opportunities for genuine progress and transformation. As we navigate an ever-changing world, Hewison's words remind us of the enduring importance of creativity, originality, and the pursuit of new ideas in shaping a brighter future.