Skip to content

The equality prescribed by the Revolution is simply the…

“The equality prescribed by the Revolution is simply the weak man's revenge upon the strong; it's just what we saw in the past, but in reverse; that everyone should have his turn is only meet. And it shall be turnabout again tomorrow, for nothing in Nature is stable and the governments men direct…” quote by Marquis de Sade
Download Open image
““The equality prescribed by the Revolution is simply the weak man's revenge upon the strong; it's just what we saw in the past, but in reverse; that everyone should have his turn is only meet. And it shall be turnabout again tomorrow, for nothing in Nature is stable and the governments men direct are bound to prove as changeable and ephemeral as they.””

Marquis de Sade

About This Quote

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

The quote claims that revolutionary equality is merely a role reversal, a fleeting revenge that will soon be overturned because nature and governments are inherently unstable.

In simple terms: Equality is a temporary power shift that will reverse again.

Key Takeaway

Recognize that power dynamics are fluid and not absolute.

Themes

politics power inequality revolution philosophy

Mood

cynical reflective

Type

political philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political reform
  • social movements
  • historical analysis
  • policy making

Key Concepts

social contract ephemerality reversal human nature

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can true equality be sustained beyond cycles of revenge?
  • What mechanisms could stabilize fair governance?
A Different Perspective

It overlooks the possibility of lasting structural change through institutions.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Marquis de Sade

Explore all 181 Marquis de Sade quotes

More Civilization quotes

Browse all 4,084 Civilization quotes