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Anointed Quote by Thomas Sowell

“The vision of the anointed is one in which ills as poverty, irresponsible sex, and crime derive primarily from 'society,' rather than from individual choices and behavior. To believe in personal responsibility would be to destroy the whole special role of the anointed, whose vision casts them in…” quote by Thomas Sowell
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“The vision of the anointed is one in which ills as poverty, irresponsible sex, and crime derive primarily from 'society,' rather than from individual choices and behavior. To believe in personal responsibility would be to destroy the whole special role of the anointed, whose vision casts them in the role of rescuers of people treated unfairly by 'society'.”

Thomas Sowell

About This Quote

Source Book: Basic Economics by Thomas Sowell, 2000

The anointed view attributes social problems to systemic causes, shielding individuals from responsibility and elevating themselves as saviors.

In simple terms: Blaming society instead of personal choices protects the elite’s self‑image.

Key Takeaway

Recognize personal agency in social issues.

Themes

responsibility social policy individualism elitism morality

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical political

When to use this quote

  • policy debates
  • education reform
  • community outreach
  • public health campaigns

Key Concepts

blaming systemic analysis personal agency

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal responsibility change social solutions?
  • What role should systemic factors play?
A Different Perspective

Overemphasis on systemic causes can ignore personal accountability.

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