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Mistress Quote by Edward Abbey

“In any nation but the USA, it is taken for granted that a man of distinction, ability, wealth or power will keep a mistress and a few girlfriends on the side. Only in America, still suffering from its grotesque, hypocritical Puritan heritage, do we persist in attempting to deny and repeal a…” quote by Edward Abbey
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““In any nation but the USA, it is taken for granted that a man of distinction, ability, wealth or power will keep a mistress and a few girlfriends on the side. Only in America, still suffering from its grotesque, hypocritical Puritan heritage, do we persist in attempting to deny and repeal a million years of basic primate biology.””

Edward Abbey

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The American Paradox,” 1975

He argues that America’s cultural heritage leads it to deny natural human behaviors seen elsewhere.

In simple terms: America denies basic primate biology due to Puritan roots.

Key Takeaway

Recognize cultural influences on behavior.

Themes

culture biology hypocrisy

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • relationship counseling
  • cultural critique
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

anthropology history gender studies

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cultural narratives shape personal choices?
  • Can biology be separated from culture?
A Different Perspective

May oversimplify complex social factors.

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