Purpose Quote by Sinclair Lewis
““The poor we have always with us, and the purpose of the Lord in providing the poor is to enable us of the better classes to amuse ourselves by investigating them and uplifting them and at dinners telling how charitable we are. The poor don't like it much. They have no gratitude. They would rather be uplifters themselves. But if they are taken firmly in hand they can be kept reasonably dependent and interesting for years.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “The Plague of Doves” (or similar work)
The speaker critiques the patronizing attitude of the wealthy toward the poor, viewing charity as self‑serving.
In simple terms: Wealthy people use charity to feel superior.
Key Takeaway
Recognize genuine empathy over self‑interest.
Themes
class disparity
charity
patronage
Mood
critical
skeptical
Type
social commentary
satire
When to use this quote
- social policy
- philanthropy
- community aid
- education programs
Key Concepts
social critique
elitism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we ensure aid respects dignity?
- What drives true altruism?
A Different Perspective
The view may overgeneralize motives of all charitable actions.
