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By reason of his species and his manners, the peasant…

“By reason of his species and his manners, the peasant comes below the pig. He finds moral life profoundly repugnant. If by chance he achieves great wealth, he loses all sense. So you see, his pockets must be kept empty. He who fails to dominate his peasants only augments their vileness.” quote by Eduardo Galeano
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““By reason of his species and his manners, the peasant comes below the pig. He finds moral life profoundly repugnant. If by chance he achieves great wealth, he loses all sense. So you see, his pockets must be kept empty. He who fails to dominate his peasants only augments their vileness.””

Eduardo Galeano

About This Quote

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

Peasants are deemed inferior; wealth can corrupt moral sense, leading to oppression and vileness.

In simple terms: Wealth can corrupt and oppress the poor.

Key Takeaway

Beware of power’s corrupting influence.

Themes

social inequality morality power dynamics

Mood

critical serious

Type

analytical political

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • community organizing
  • education programs

Key Concepts

class struggle ethical decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does wealth affect morality?
  • Can power be used benevolently?
A Different Perspective

Not all wealthy individuals become corrupt.

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