We would have every arbitrary barrier thrown down. We would have every path laid open to woman as freely as to man.
Margaret FullerRead
There exists in the minds of men a tone of feeling toward women as toward slaves.
Interpretation
The quote highlights the objectification and subjugation of women in society, comparing it to the treatment of slaves.
Margaret Fullerβs quote reflects on the deep-seated attitudes and biases that exist in society, where women are often viewed in a subordinate and dehumanized manner, akin to slaves. This comparison serves to illuminate the emotional and psychological toll of such perceptions, urging society to recognize and challenge these harmful dynamics to promote equality and respect for women's autonomy and humanity.
In practice
In a discussion about gender inequality, this quote can highlight the historical context of women's rights.
We would have every arbitrary barrier thrown down. We would have every path laid open to woman as freely as to man.
I fear I have not one good word to say this fair morning, though the sun shines so encouragingly on the distant hills and gentle river and the trees are in their festive hues. I am not festive, though contented. When obliged to give myself to the prose of life, as I am on this occasion of being established in a new home I like to do the thing, wholly and quite, - to weave my web for the day solely from the grey yarn.
Plants of great vigor will almost always struggle into blossom, despite impediments. But there should be encouragement, and a free genial atmosphere for those of more timid sort, fair play for each in its own kind.
Two persons love in one another the future good which they aid one another to unfold.
It was not meant that the soul should cultivate the earth, but that the earth should educate and maintain the soul.
It seems that it is madder never to abandon one's self than often to be infatuated; better to be wounded, a captive and a slave, than always to walk in armor.
Astonishment is the root of philosophy.
It is no worse, because I write of it. It would be no better, if I stopped my most unwilling hand. Nothing can undo it; nothing can make it otherwise than as it was.
War is too serious a matter to entrust to military men.
We are here and it is now. Further than that, all human knowledge is moonshine.
I believe every act of violence is also a message that needs to be understood. Violence should not be answered just by greater violence but by real understanding. We must ask: 'Where is the violence coming from? What is its meaning?
Man has the power to act as his own destroyer - and that is the way he has acted through most of his history.
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