Believer Quote by Matt Taibbi
“Critics say the OWS protesters hate the rich. Come on! Success is the national religion, and almost everyone is a believer. Americans love winners. But that's just the problem. These guys on Wall Street are not winning - they're cheating. And as much as we love the self-made success story, we hate the cheater that much more.”
About This Quote
Source Book: *The Divide: American Injustice in the Age of the Wealth Gap* by Matt Taibbi, 2014
The quote critiques the cultural glorification of wealth and success while condemning cheating and inequality, highlighting a paradox in American values.
In simple terms: America praises success but despises those who cheat to get it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and challenge unfair advantage.
Themes
wealth
success
inequality
culture
hypocrisy
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- political discourse
- media analysis
- public policy
- personal ethics
Key Concepts
social critique
economic disparity
moral paradox
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance admiration for achievement with condemnation of cheating?
- What reforms could reduce cheating in finance?
A Different Perspective
The focus on winners can obscure systemic injustice.
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