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A country is strong which consists of wealthy families…

“A country is strong which consists of wealthy families, every member of whom is interested in defending a common treasure; it is weak when composed of scattered individuals, to whom it matters little whether they obey seven or one, a Russian or a Corsican, so long as each keeps his own plot of…” quote by Honore de Balzac
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“A country is strong which consists of wealthy families, every member of whom is interested in defending a common treasure; it is weak when composed of scattered individuals, to whom it matters little whether they obey seven or one, a Russian or a Corsican, so long as each keeps his own plot of land, blind in their wretched egotism, to the fact that the day is coming when this too will be torn from them.”

Honore de Balzac

About This Quote

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

A nation thrives when families share common goals, but falls apart when individuals act selfishly, ignoring collective responsibility.

In simple terms: Collective strength beats selfishness.

Key Takeaway

Foster shared purpose over personal gain.

Themes

community family collective responsibility social cohesion

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical social.

When to use this quote

  • urban planning
  • political movements
  • family businesses

Key Concepts

collectivism social contract egoism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What incentives encourage people to prioritize the common good?
  • Can personal ambition coexist with societal welfare?
A Different Perspective

Individualism can also drive innovation and personal freedom.

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