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A society which reverences the attainment of riches as the…

“A society which reverences the attainment of riches as the supreme felicity will naturally be disposed to regard the poor as damned ... if only to justify itself for making their life a hell.” quote by R. H. Tawney
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“A society which reverences the attainment of riches as the supreme felicity will naturally be disposed to regard the poor as damned ... if only to justify itself for making their life a hell.”

R. H. Tawney

About This Quote

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

A society that prizes wealth above all will dehumanize the poor to justify oppression.

In simple terms: Wealth worship devalues the poor.

Key Takeaway

Question inequality and protect the vulnerable.

Themes

inequality wealth morality social justice

Mood

critical reflective

Type

ethical political

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • community organizing
  • education reform
  • advocacy
  • philanthropy

Key Concepts

Capitalism ethical relativism class struggle

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does wealth worship shape attitudes toward the poor?
  • What policies can counteract this dehumanization?
A Different Perspective

Such a view can ignore systemic causes of poverty.

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