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The thief or swindler who has gained great wealth by his…

“The thief or swindler who has gained great wealth by his delinquency has a better chance than the small thief of escaping the rigorous penalty of the law.” quote by Thorstein Veblen
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“The thief or swindler who has gained great wealth by his delinquency has a better chance than the small thief of escaping the rigorous penalty of the law.”

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.

Wealth acquired through wrongdoing makes it easier to avoid legal consequences than for minor offenders.

In simple terms: Rich criminals evade punishment more easily than small thieves.

Key Takeaway

Recognize systemic bias in law enforcement.

Themes

justice inequality law wealth crime

Mood

critical analytical

Type

sociological political

When to use this quote

  • corporate fraud
  • white‑collar crime
  • tax evasion
  • small‑scale theft
  • legal reform

Key Concepts

social stratification legal disparity moral hazard

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does wealth influence legal outcomes?
  • What reforms could equalize accountability?
A Different Perspective

Wealth does not guarantee moral immunity.

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