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Conservatism, being an upper-class characteristic, is…

“Conservatism, being an upper-class characteristic, is decorous; and conversely, innovation, being a lower-class phenomenon, is vulgar. ...Innovation is bad form.” quote by Thorstein Veblen
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“Conservatism, being an upper-class characteristic, is decorous; and conversely, innovation, being a lower-class phenomenon, is vulgar. ...Innovation is bad form.”

Thorstein Veblen

About This Quote

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

Conservatism is linked to elite status, while innovation is seen as lower‑class and vulgar; thus, innovation is socially discouraged.

In simple terms: Conservatism seen as elite, innovation as vulgar.

Key Takeaway

Challenge class‑based biases against change.

Themes

class conservatism innovation social bias

Mood

critical analytical

Type

sociological philosophical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • corporate culture
  • education reform
  • media narratives

Key Concepts

sociology economic theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do class perceptions shape attitudes toward new ideas?
  • What can be done to value innovation across social strata?
A Different Perspective

Innovation can be valuable regardless of class origins.

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