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Absolutes Quote by Charles Dickens

“The American elite is almost beyond redemption. . . . Moral relativism has set in so deeply that the gilded classes have become incapable of discerning right from wrong. Everything can be explained away, especially by journalists. Life is one great moral mush--sophistry washed down with…” quote by Charles Dickens
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“The American elite is almost beyond redemption. . . . Moral relativism has set in so deeply that the gilded classes have become incapable of discerning right from wrong. Everything can be explained away, especially by journalists. Life is one great moral mush--sophistry washed down with Chardonnay. The ordinary citizens, thank goodness, still adhere to absolutes… It is they who have saved the republic from creeping degradation while their 'betters' were derelict.”

Charles Dickens

About This Quote

The author critiques elite moral relativism, claiming it erodes clear ethical standards, while ordinary people uphold absolute values that protect society.

In simple terms: Elite moral relativism weakens ethics; ordinary people keep firm values.

Key Takeaway

Value and uphold clear moral principles.

Themes

ethics society elitism

Mood

critical concerned

Type

social commentary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political discourse
  • media analysis
  • civic education
  • community dialogue

Key Concepts

moral relativism journalistic bias social decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do absolutes always serve the common good?
  • How can society balance moral clarity with nuance?
A Different Perspective

Absolutes may be overly rigid in complex issues.

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