Skip to content

In a society riven into ‘us’ and ‘them’, an ambitious…

“In a society riven into ‘us’ and ‘them’, an ambitious young person might well want to be one of the group in the know, one of the unmolested. If there was never going to be an end to your country, and you could never leave, why wouldn’t you opt for a peaceful life and a satisfying career?” quote by Anna Funder
Download Open image
““In a society riven into ‘us’ and ‘them’, an ambitious young person might well want to be one of the group in the know, one of the unmolested. If there was never going to be an end to your country, and you could never leave, why wouldn’t you opt for a peaceful life and a satisfying career?””

Anna Funder

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

In a divided society, a pragmatic individual may choose stability and personal fulfillment over rebellion when escape seems impossible.

In simple terms: Choose peace and career when change feels impossible.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize personal well‑being in restrictive environments.

Themes

pragmatism stability identity politics

Mood

reflective thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • political oppression
  • career decisions
  • personal safety

Key Concepts

social division choice theorysurvival career planning

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance personal safety with social responsibility?
  • When is compromise a form of resistance?
A Different Perspective

Choosing safety may limit broader social impact.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Anna Funder

Explore all 72 Anna Funder quotes

More Ambitious quotes

Browse all 1,269 Ambitious quotes