Age Quote by Jonathan Swift
“Dignity, high station, or great riches, are in some sort necessary to old men, in order to keep the younger at a distance, who are otherwise too apt to insult them upon the score of their age.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift, 1726
Elderly men use status or wealth to keep younger men at a respectful distance, preventing disrespect based on age.
In simple terms: Old men use rank to keep younger men respectful.
Key Takeaway
Promote respect through character, not status.
Themes
age
respect
power
social hierarchy
humility
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
social
When to use this quote
- workplace mentorship
- family gatherings
- community leadership
Key Concepts
sociology
ethics
intergenerational dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies foster mutual respect across ages?
- What alternatives exist to status‑based distance?
A Different Perspective
Relying on status can breed resentment and inequality.
