Paradox of Progress Pronunciation: /ˈpær.əˌdɒks əv ˈprɑː.ɡrɛs/ (PAIR-uh-doks uhv PRAH-gres) Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A concept describing the cyclical pattern in which hardship leads to strength and prosperity, but that very prosperity eventually breeds weakness, decline, or renewed hardship. This paradox is often illustrated by generational shifts: early generations endure and overcome difficulty, leading to comfort for their descendants, who may then become complacent or less resilient, ultimately resulting in a return to hardship.
Example: “My grandfather walked 10 miles to work, my father walked 5, I drive a Cadillac, my son drives a Mercedes, my grandson will drive a Ferrari, but my great grandson will be walking again—because tough times create strong men, strong men create easy times, easy times create weak men, and weak men create tough times.” -Anon