Accomplished Quote by E. M. Forster
“Italy is such a delightful place to live in if you happen to be a man. There one may enjoy that exquisite luxury of Socialism--that true Socialism which is based not on equality of income or character, but on the equality of manners. In the democracy of the caffè or the street the great question of our life has been solved, and the brotherhood of man is a reality. But it is accomplished at the expense of the sisterhood of women.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Other Side of the Coin”, 1915
The passage praises Italy’s pleasures and a version of socialism based on manners, noting it benefits men while marginalizing women.
In simple terms: Italy offers joy; a manners‑based socialism favors men over women.
Key Takeaway
Recognize gender bias in social ideals.
Themes
gender
social critique
politics
Mood
critical
thoughtful
Type
analytical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- travel experiences
- political discussions
- gender equality activism
Key Concepts
feminism
social theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How does cultural context shape notions of equality?
- Can true equality exist without gender parity?
A Different Perspective
The “equality of manners” may mask deeper inequities.
![“[U]nless oppressed groups stick together, and on alliances of self interest rather than do-goodism; nothing can be accomplished in the long run to dismantle the apparatus of oppression.” quote by Shulamith Firestone](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d7b/shulamith-firestone-12980_accomplished_u-nless-oppressed-groups-stick-together_5485.jpg)
