Animal Quote by Gertrude Stein
“It is very funny about money. The thing that differentiates man from animals is money. All animals have the same emotions and the same ways as men. Anybody who has lots of animals around knows that. But the thing no animal can do is count, and the thing no animal can know is money.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Autobiography of Alice B. Toklas,” 1933
The passage contrasts human uniqueness—money and counting—with animal sameness, using humor to critique materialism and highlight distinct human capacities.
In simple terms: Money separates humans from animals.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on how money shapes identity.
Themes
materialism
human uniqueness
philosophy
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
social commentary
When to use this quote
- social commentary
- financial planning
- education
- artistic expression
Key Concepts
economics
psychology
anthropology
Questions to Reflect On
- How does money influence your values?
- Can we find meaning beyond material wealth?
A Different Perspective
It may oversimplify animal cognition and human behavior.
![“What is the answer?" [ I [Alice B Toklas] was silent ] In that case, what is the question?” quote by Gertrude Stein](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/eec/gertrude-stein-667_answer_what-is-the-answer-i-alice-b-toklas-was_43063.jpg)
