Belly Quote by Hilary Mantel
“It is better not to try people, not to force them to desperation. Make them prosper; out of superfluidity, they will be generous. Full bellies breed gentle manners. The pinch of famine makes monsters.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel, 2009
Treat people with compassion; scarcity breeds cruelty, while abundance fosters generosity and kindness.
In simple terms: Kindness breeds kindness; scarcity breeds cruelty.
Key Takeaway
Foster abundance and empathy.
Themes
compassion
social dynamics
generosity
Mood
thoughtful
empathetic
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political intrigue
- court life
- war
Key Concepts
human behavior
economics
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you create abundance in your community?
- What safeguards prevent generosity from being exploited?
A Different Perspective
Abundance alone does not guarantee virtue.
