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Money Quote by Henry David Thoreau

“If a state is governed by the principles of reason, poverty and misery are subjects of shame; if a state is not governed by the principles of reason, riches and honors are subjects of shame." No:” quote by Henry David Thoreau
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““If a state is governed by the principles of reason, poverty and misery are subjects of shame; if a state is not governed by the principles of reason, riches and honors are subjects of shame." No:””

Henry David Thoreau

About This Quote

He argues that rational governance should shame poverty, while irrational rule shames wealth.

In simple terms: Reason should condemn poverty; irrationality should condemn wealth.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for rational, just governance.

Themes

politics ethics economics

Mood

critical inquisitive

Type

political ethical

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • social activism
  • public debate

Key Concepts

justice reason inequality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance wealth and poverty?
  • What defines rational governance?
A Different Perspective

Real-world politics often ignore pure rationality.

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