Meaning: This quote is often attributed to Hanns Johst, a German playwright who was associated with the Nazi regime. The quote is a stark and disturbing reflection of the way in which culture and artistic expression can be manipulated and used for violent and destructive ends.

The phrase "When I hear the word culture - I release the safety-catch of my Browning" is a chilling and provocative statement. On the surface, it appears to suggest that the speaker is so repulsed or threatened by the concept of culture that they are compelled to reach for a weapon. However, the quote goes much deeper than a mere expression of disdain for cultural pursuits.

At a fundamental level, the quote underscores the power of words and ideas to shape and influence human behavior. The act of "releasing the safety-catch of my Browning" symbolizes the potential for violence and aggression that lies beneath the surface of seemingly innocuous words and concepts. It suggests that culture, typically associated with refinement, creativity, and intellectual pursuits, can also be a source of conflict, division, and even brutality.

The quote also speaks to the complex and often fraught relationship between art and politics. In the context of Johst's own career, it is particularly significant. Johst was a prominent figure in the cultural life of Nazi Germany, and his work was often co-opted and manipulated to serve the propaganda aims of the regime. His play "Schlageter," in particular, was celebrated by the Nazis for its glorification of nationalist and militaristic themes.

In this light, the quote can be seen as a disturbing reflection of the ways in which art and culture can be perverted and weaponized in the service of authoritarian ideologies. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of using artistic expression as a tool for promoting division, hatred, and violence.

The quote also raises important questions about the nature of culture itself. What does it mean to speak of "culture" in this context? Is it a reference to high art, literature, and intellectual pursuits, or does it encompass the broader fabric of human creativity and expression? And what are the implications of associating culture with violence and aggression?

One possible interpretation is that the quote is a critique of the hypocrisy and double standards that often underlie discussions of culture and civilization. It challenges the notion that culture is inherently benevolent or ennobling, and instead suggests that it can be a mask for darker impulses and agendas.

At the same time, the quote can also be seen as a warning about the potential consequences of neglecting or devaluing the cultural dimensions of human existence. By linking culture to violence, it highlights the ways in which the absence of cultural understanding and appreciation can lead to conflict and discord.

In conclusion, the quote "When I hear the word culture - I release the safety-catch of my Browning" is a powerful and thought-provoking statement that raises important questions about the nature of culture, the relationship between art and politics, and the potential for cultural expression to be co-opted for destructive ends. It serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of using artistic and cultural pursuits as tools for promoting division, hatred, and violence.