What we want is to see the child in pursuit of knowledge, and not knowledge in pursuit of the child.
George Bernard ShawRead
Idiots are always in favour of inequality of income (their only chance of eminence), and the really great in favour of equality.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote suggests that those with lesser intellect support income inequality because it benefits them, while truly great individuals advocate for equality.
George Bernard Shaw highlights the notion that individuals of lower intellect often support income inequality as it provides them a chance to rise above others, while those who are genuinely great, in terms of character and ability, champion the cause of equality. This reflects a broader philosophical stance on the nature of greatness and the motivations behind people's beliefs about socioeconomic structures.
Themes
EqualityInequalityIntellectGreatnessIncome
In practice
Example use cases
In a debate about economic policies, one might reference Shaw's quote to illustrate differing perspectives on income distribution.
More from George Bernard Shaw
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Forgive him, for he believes that the customs of his tribe are the laws of nature!
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Those who talk most about the blessings of marriage and the constancy of its vows are the very people who declare that if the chain were broken and the prisoners left free to choose, the whole social fabric would fly asunder. You cannot have the argument both ways. If the prisoner is happy, why lock him in? If he is not, why pretend that he is?
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Treat a friend as a person who may someday become your enemy; an enemy as a person who may someday become your friend.
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The happiness of credulity is a cheap and dangerous quality.
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