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Since we humans do not want to return to the old selfish…

“Since we humans do not want to return to the old selfish ways where we let the children of too-large families starve to death, we have abolished the family as a unit of economic self-sufficiency, and substituted the state.” quote by Richard Dawkins
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““Since we humans do not want to return to the old selfish ways where we let the children of too-large families starve to death, we have abolished the family as a unit of economic self-sufficiency, and substituted the state.””

Richard Dawkins

About This Quote

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

Societies replace family economics with state support, aiming to prevent child starvation.

In simple terms: State replaces family economics to protect children.

Key Takeaway

Consider the role of state welfare.

Themes

ethics economics family state social policy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • public policy design
  • social safety nets
  • child welfare programs

Key Concepts

collectivism welfare economics human rights

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does state support affect family dynamics?
  • What safeguards prevent abuse of welfare?
A Different Perspective

May reduce individual responsibility and create dependency.

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