Character Quote by Robert Hughes
““The failure of language—the tyranny of moral generalization over social inspection—fed the ruling class’s belief that it was endangered from below.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Shock of the New, 1980
Language can obscure specific social realities when broad moral judgments dominate, protecting elite power structures.
In simple terms: Broad morals hide social details, aiding elites.
Question language to reveal lived realities.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- academic analysis
- policy making
- media criticism
- education
- activism
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape power?
- When should moral judgments be applied?
Overemphasis on moral generalization may ignore necessary universal principles.