Communities now find themselves in possession of…
![“Communities now find themselves in possession of improvements [resulting from the WPA] which even in 1929 they would have thought themselves presumptuous to dream of... [but] everywhere there had been an overhauling of the word presumptuous. We are beginning to wonder if it is not presumptuous to…” quote by Harry Hopkins](https://sms4smile.com/q/i/3d6/harry-hopkins-43475_children_communities-now-find-themselves-in-posse_1118497.png)
“Communities now find themselves in possession of improvements [resulting from the WPA] which even in 1929 they would have thought themselves presumptuous to dream of... [but] everywhere there had been an overhauling of the word presumptuous. We are beginning to wonder if it is not presumptuous to take for granted that some people should have much, and some should have nothing; that some people are less important than others and should die earlier; that the children of the comfortable should be taller and fatter, as a matter of right, than the other children of the poor.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Societal inequality is often justified as natural, but such assumptions are presumptuous; we must challenge the belief that some deserve more while others are denied basic rights.
In simple terms: Question the notion that inequality is inevitable.
Key Takeaway
Challenge assumptions of inherent social hierarchy.
Themes
equality
justice
social critique
presumption
Mood
critical
urgent
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy reform
- education
- community organizing
- advocacy
Key Concepts
political philosophy
human rights
economic disparity
Questions to Reflect On
- What structures uphold inequality?
- How can we foster a culture of shared responsibility?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑rooted beliefs is difficult and may meet resistance.