Characteristics Quote by Thorstein Veblen
“Conservatism, being an upper-class characteristic, is decorous; and conversely, innovation, being a lower-class phenomenon, is vulgar. ...Innovation is bad form.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Theory of the Leisure Class, 1899
Conservatism is linked to elite status, while innovation is seen as lower‑class and vulgar; thus, innovation is socially discouraged.
In simple terms: Conservatism seen as elite, innovation as vulgar.
Key Takeaway
Challenge class‑based biases against change.
Themes
class
conservatism
innovation
social bias
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- policy making
- corporate culture
- education reform
- media narratives
Key Concepts
sociology
economic theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do class perceptions shape attitudes toward new ideas?
- What can be done to value innovation across social strata?
A Different Perspective
Innovation can be valuable regardless of class origins.
