Absolutes Quote by C. Wright Mills
“A society that is in its higher circles and middle levels widely believed to be a network of smart rackets does not produce men with an inner moral sense; a society that is merely expedient does not produce men of conscience. A society that narrows the meaning of 'success' to the big money and in its terms condemns failure as the chief vice, raising money to the plane of absolute value, will produce the sharp operator and the shady deal. Blessed are the cynical, for only they have what it takes to succeed.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Power Elite, 1956
Societies focused on profit and expediency erode moral conscience, producing cynical individuals who succeed by exploiting values, while true ethical character is suppressed.
In simple terms: Moral sense declines when success is defined by money and expediency.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate ethical standards over profit.
Themes
ethics
society
morality
success
cynicism
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
sociological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- business decisions
- educational curricula
- public discourse
Key Concepts
social stratification
value systems
conscience
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance success with moral integrity?
- What mechanisms protect conscience in profit‑driven cultures?
A Different Perspective
Cynicism can undermine trust and collaboration.
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