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The office of the leisure class in social evolution is to…

“The office of the leisure class in social evolution is to retard the movement and to conserve what is obsolescent. This proposition is by no means novel; it has long been one of the commonplaces of popular opinion.” quote by Thorstein Veblen
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“The office of the leisure class in social evolution is to retard the movement and to conserve what is obsolescent. This proposition is by no means novel; it has long been one of the commonplaces of popular opinion.”

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.

The leisure class slows progress by preserving outdated customs and resisting change, acting as a barrier to social evolution.

In simple terms: The rich class can hinder progress by clinging to old ways.

Key Takeaway

Question and challenge outdated norms.

Themes

social stagnation class dynamics conservatism

Mood

critical analytical

Type

sociological critical

When to use this quote

  • policy reform
  • cultural critique
  • organizational change

Key Concepts

sociology economics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What modern practices resist beneficial change?
  • How can societies balance tradition and progress?
A Different Perspective

Not all leisure activities are detrimental; some inspire innovation.

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