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I am told that today rather more than 60 per cent of the…

“I am told that today rather more than 60 per cent of the men who go to university go on a Government grant. This is a new class that has entered upon the scene. It is the white-collar proletariat. They do not go to university to acquire culture but to get a job, and when they have got one, scamp…” quote by W. Somerset Maugham
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“I am told that today rather more than 60 per cent of the men who go to university go on a Government grant. This is a new class that has entered upon the scene. It is the white-collar proletariat. They do not go to university to acquire culture but to get a job, and when they have got one, scamp it. They have no manners and are woefully unable to deal with any social predicament. Their idea of a celebration is to go to a public house and drink six beers. They are mean, malicious and envious . They are scum.”

W. Somerset Maugham

About This Quote

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

Critiques a new class of university graduates who pursue jobs over culture, leading to social and moral deficits.

In simple terms: Graduates seeking only jobs lack cultural depth.

Key Takeaway

Encourage broader education and social responsibility.

Themes

education class culture

Mood

critical reflective

Type

social philosophical

When to use this quote

  • university policy
  • career counseling
  • social integration
  • public education

Key Concepts

social stratification elitism careerism

Questions to Reflect On

  • What responsibilities do educated individuals have to society?
  • How can curricula balance vocational and cultural learning?
A Different Perspective

Not all graduates fit this stereotype; many contribute positively to culture.

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