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Greed Quote by Terry Pratchett

“Indeed, if a poor man will spend a year in prison for stealing out of hunger, how high would the gallows need to be to hang the rich man who breaks the law out of greed?” quote by Terry Pratchett
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““Indeed, if a poor man will spend a year in prison for stealing out of hunger, how high would the gallows need to be to hang the rich man who breaks the law out of greed?””

Terry Pratchett

About This Quote

Source Discworld novel: "The Fifth Elephant", 1999

A poor man’s hunger crime is punished harshly, while a rich man’s greed may go unpunished.

In simple terms: Justice is uneven between poor and rich.

Key Takeaway

Seek fair justice for all.

Themes

ethics social inequality justice

Mood

critical thought‑provoking

Type

philosophical satirical

When to use this quote

  • court sentencing
  • policy making
  • activism
  • community advocacy

Key Concepts

poverty greed legal system class disparity

Questions to Reflect On

  • What reforms could equalize justice?
  • How does wealth influence legal outcomes?
A Different Perspective

Legal systems can be biased despite intentions.

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