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Another man Quote by George Bernard Shaw

“The thief who is in prison is not necessarily more dishonest than his fellows at large, but mostly one who, through ignorance or stupidity [or racism or poverty! - Draffan] steals in a way that is not customary. He snatches a loaf from the baker's counter and is promptly run into gaol. Another man…” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“The thief who is in prison is not necessarily more dishonest than his fellows at large, but mostly one who, through ignorance or stupidity [or racism or poverty! - Draffan] steals in a way that is not customary. He snatches a loaf from the baker's counter and is promptly run into gaol. Another man snatches bread from the table of hundreds of widows and orphans and similar credulous souls who do not know the ways of company promoters; and, as likely as not, he is run into Parliament.”

George Bernard Shaw

About This Quote

Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903

Societal judgments differ for crimes based on status, exposing bias in legal treatment.

In simple terms: Justice varies with social standing.

Key Takeaway

Question fairness of legal outcomes across classes.

Themes

justice bias social class law

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical provocative

When to use this quote

  • courtroom
  • political arena
  • social activism

Key Concepts

inequality power dynamics morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does status influence punishment?
  • Can law be truly impartial?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems often favor the privileged over the marginalized.

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