Able Quote by Thomas Huxley
“It may be quite true that some negroes are better than some white men; but no rational man, cognisant of the facts, believes that the average negro is the equal, still less the superior, of the average white man. And, if this be true, it is simply incredible that, when all his disabilities are removed, and our prognathous relative has a fair field and no favour, as well as no oppressor, he will be able to compete successfully with his bigger-brained and smaller-jawed rival, in a contest which is to be carried on by thoughts and not by bites.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: 19th‑century scientific lecture, null;null
The quote argues that, even if average abilities differ, removing social barriers would allow equal competition based on intellect.
In simple terms: Even if average abilities differ, removing barriers lets intellect compete.
Key Takeaway
Equality requires removing social barriers.
Themes
equality
science
race
social justice
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
philosophical
controversial
When to use this quote
- education reform
- policy making
- workplace diversity
- academic admissions
Key Concepts
social Darwinism
racial hierarchy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we define “average” ability?
- Can social structures be fully removed?
A Different Perspective
Assumes innate ability differences are measurable and static.
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