Meaning: Irving Babbitt, an American literary critic and scholar, made this statement in his work "Rousseau and Romanticism." The quote reflects Babbitt's exploration of the role of discipline in society and the consequences of its absence. Babbitt was a prominent figure in the New Humanist movement, which sought to address the cultural and moral decline they saw in modern society. His ideas were influential in shaping the discourse on the importance of discipline and its impact on societal order.

Babbitt's assertion that society cannot function without some form of discipline underscores his belief in the essential role of order and structure in maintaining social harmony. He argues that in the absence of alternative forms of discipline, individuals are compelled to resort to military-style discipline as a means of regulating behavior and maintaining control. This suggests that without a framework of discipline, society would descend into chaos and disorder, necessitating the imposition of coercive measures to restore stability.

The reference to "discipline of the military type" highlights Babbitt's concern with the potential for authoritarian and repressive forms of discipline to emerge in the absence of alternative mechanisms for social regulation. Babbitt's critique of this type of discipline aligns with his broader skepticism of unchecked power and his advocacy for a more balanced and humane approach to social organization.

Babbitt's perspective on discipline can be contextualized within the broader historical and intellectual milieu of his time. The early 20th century witnessed significant social and cultural upheaval, including the aftermath of World War I and the challenges posed by industrialization and urbanization. In this context, Babbitt's emphasis on the importance of discipline can be seen as a response to the perceived erosion of traditional values and the need to reaffirm moral and ethical principles in the face of rapid change.

Moreover, Babbitt's views on discipline intersect with his broader critique of romanticism and its perceived excesses. He was critical of the romantic glorification of individualism and emotional impulse, which he believed undermined the cultivation of moral character and restraint. Babbitt's advocacy for discipline can thus be seen as a corrective to what he viewed as the permissiveness and lack of moral grounding associated with romantic ideals.

In conclusion, Irving Babbitt's quote encapsulates his belief in the indispensable role of discipline in maintaining social order and stability. His concerns about the potential consequences of the absence of discipline and the resort to military-style control reflect his broader preoccupation with the moral and cultural challenges of his time. By highlighting the need for a balanced and humane form of discipline, Babbitt's ideas continue to offer insights into the ongoing debates about the nature of societal control and the cultivation of ethical conduct.