Civility Quote by William Hazlitt
“Poverty is the test of civility and the touchstone of friendship.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "On the Test of Civility", 1805
Society reveals its true character through how it treats the poor, and friendships are proven in those moments.
In simple terms: How we treat the poor shows our civility and true friends.
Key Takeaway
Treat the vulnerable with dignity.
Themes
civility
friendship
poverty
social responsibility
Mood
compassionate
reflective
Type
ethical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- community service
- charitable work
- policy making
- personal interactions
Key Concepts
ethics
human dignity
social contract
Questions to Reflect On
- How does your community support the needy?
- What defines a true friend in hardship?
A Different Perspective
We may overlook systemic causes of poverty.
