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Elites quite naturally define as the most important and…

“Elites quite naturally define as the most important and admired qualities for a citizen those on which they themselves have concentrated.” quote by John Ralston Saul
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“Elites quite naturally define as the most important and admired qualities for a citizen those on which they themselves have concentrated.”

John Ralston Saul

About This Quote

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

Elites define citizen virtues based on their own interests, not universal standards.

In simple terms: Elites project self‑interest onto society.

Key Takeaway

Question whose values are being promoted.

Themes

politics power society

Mood

analytical skeptical

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • civic education
  • leadership development

Key Concepts

philosophy social critique

Questions to Reflect On

  • Who decides what qualities are truly valuable?
  • How can citizens influence these definitions?
A Different Perspective

Elites may also have genuine public‑spirit motives.

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