Class warfare Quote by William Dean Howells
“People naturally despise a dependant.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Social Critiques, 1885
Dependence often triggers contempt because it challenges ideals of self‑sufficiency and autonomy.
In simple terms: People dislike reliance on others.
Key Takeaway
Respect interdependence.
Themes
independence
social judgment
dependence
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
sociological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- workplace dynamics
- family caregiving
- friendship
- policy debates
Key Concepts
psychology
social norms
Questions to Reflect On
- When does reliance become strength?
- How can we reduce stigma around needing help?
A Different Perspective
Not all dependence is negative; it can foster community.
![“[The word class has] been excised from the acceptable political vocabulary, except in the limited usage of right-wingers when they accuse liberals of inciting 'class warfare' - a charge that means it's okay for rich people to vote their economic interests but it's not all right to encourage poor…” quote by Harry Shearer](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/7b1/harry-shearer-7595_acceptable_the-word-class-has-been-excised-from-the_521303.jpg)
