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To me all men are equal: there are jackasses everywhere, and I have the same contempt for them all.
Karl Kraus
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote reflects the idea that people are judged equally, regardless of their status, revealing a universal disdain for mediocrity.

Karl Kraus's statement emphasizes that he sees all individuals as equal, highlighting his disdain for foolishness found in all walks of life. The quote suggests that intelligence, integrity, or lack thereof are not confined to social classes, portraying a strong contempt for ignorance regardless of its source. It reflects the idea that human flaws are universally present, and Kraus applies the same standard of judgment to everyone.

Themes

EqualityContemptIgnoranceJudgmentHuman Nature

In practice

Example use cases

During a debate on equality in society, this quote can be used to emphasize the universal flaws in human character.

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Democracy divides people into workers and loafers. It makes no provision for those who have no time to work.
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