But avarice and ambition in the rich, in the poor the…
“But avarice and ambition in the rich, in the poor the hatred of labour and the love of present ease and enjoyment, are the passions which prompt to invade property, passions much more steady in their operation, and much more universal in their influence. Wherever there is great property there is great inequality. For one very rich man there must be at least five hundred poor, and the affluence of the few supposes the indigence of the many.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Wealth creates a gap where few own much and many have little, driven by greed and desire for comfort.
In simple terms: Rich get richer, poor stay poor due to greed and comfort seeking.
Recognize and address systemic inequality.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- policy making
- social activism
- education reform
- community support
- wealth redistribution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal ambition affect societal inequality?
- What policies can reduce wealth gaps?
Assumes all wealth is accumulated by the few, ignoring other factors.