... in the fierce competition ofmodern society the only…
“... in the fierce competition ofmodern society the only class left in the country possessing leisure is that of women supported in easy circumstances by husband or father, and it is to this class we must look for the maintenance of cultivated andrefined tastes, for that value and pursuit of knowledge andof art for their own sakes which can alone save society from degenerating into a hugemachine for making money, and gratifying the love of sensual luxury.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The author argues that women of leisure, supported by husbands or fathers, are the only class capable of preserving refined tastes and knowledge, which can prevent society from becoming a money‑driven machine focused on sensual luxury.
In simple terms: Leisure women can protect culture and knowledge against materialism.
Key Takeaway
Support educated women and value cultural pursuits.
Themes
culture
gender
class
materialism
education
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
culture
gender
class
materialism
education
When to use this quote
- family patronage
- cultural institutions
- education policy
- philanthropy
- media representation
Key Concepts
social critique
elitism
gender roles
Questions to Reflect On
- How does economic dependence affect cultural stewardship?
- Can men also preserve refined tastes?
A Different Perspective
The claim overlooks women’s agency beyond economic dependence.