Castes Quote by Claude Levi-Strauss
“The only phenomenon with which writing has always been concomitant is the creation of cities and empires, that is the integration of large numbers of individuals into a political system, and their grading into castes or classes. It seems to have favored the exploitation of human beings rather than their enlightenment.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Tristes Tropiques, 1955
Writing historically aligns with building societies, often reinforcing hierarchies and exploitation over enlightenment.
In simple terms: Writing often supports societal structures, sometimes oppressive.
Key Takeaway
Recognize writing’s societal impact.
Themes
writing
societal development
power structures
history
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
instructive
When to use this quote
- academic research
- policy drafting
- journalism
- fiction writing
Key Concepts
cultural hegemony
class formation
urbanization
Questions to Reflect On
- How can writers promote equity?
- What narratives resist class division?
A Different Perspective
Writing can also challenge oppression if intentional.
![“Now that practical skills have developed enough to provide adequately for material needs, one of these sciences which are not devoted to utilitarian ends [mathematics] has been able to arise in Egypt, the priestly caste there having the leisure necessary for disinterested research.” quote by Aristotle](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2ee/aristotle-78_able_now-that-practical-skills-have-developed_114834.jpg)
