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Democracy Quote by Karl Kraus

“Democracy divides people into workers and loafers. It makes no provision for those who have no time to work.” quote by Karl Kraus
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“Democracy divides people into workers and loafers. It makes no provision for those who have no time to work.”

Karl Kraus

About This Quote

Source Essay: The Last Days of Europe, 1918

Democracy creates a binary between laborers and idle people, ignoring those whose lives don’t fit the work‑centric model.

In simple terms: Democracy splits people into workers and non‑workers.

Key Takeaway

Consider inclusive policies for non‑working citizens.

Themes

politics economics social equity labor

Mood

critical thoughtful

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • employment law
  • welfare design
  • personal time management
  • social activism

Key Concepts

capitalism social contract time scarcity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What defines a productive citizen?
  • How can societies value non‑labor contributions?
A Different Perspective

May idealize democracy without accounting for systemic constraints.

2.5 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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