Final answer:
The quote is incorrect because it embodies an outdated, ethnocentric perspective that views cultural development through biased stages leading to European civilization. Modern anthropology rejects these classifications, recognizing the value in all cultures and the complexity of societal development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote “Savagery followed by Barbary followed finally by Civilization” is incorrect because it reflects an outdated and ethnocentric view of social evolution. This perspective was propagated by 19th-century anthropologists like Edward Tylor who believed cultures progress through stages from 'savagery' to 'barbarism' to 'civilization,' with European society being the pinnacle. These views were not only speculative and rooted in cultural bias, but they also ignored the complexities and worth of different societies and cultures around the world.
It is now recognized that the term civilization has often been applied in a manner that reflects the cultural prejudices of those defining it. Furthermore, the application of such terms as 'savage' and 'barbaric' by colonizers was a way to justify their actions against other cultures. Modern anthropology rejects these simplistic classifications and instead appreciates the inherent value in all cultures, promoting respect and understanding.
Historically, such binaries have been used to paint native peoples and non-European societies in a negative light, fueling stereotypes and misconceptions. The idea that certain societies were backward, lacked intelligence, or could not be 'civilized' has been heavily criticized and refuted in contemporary scholarship.