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The political and commercial morals of the United States are not merely food for laughter, they are an entire banquet.
Mark Twain
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Interpretation

What this quote means

This quote humorously critiques the ethics in politics and commerce in the United States.

Mark Twain uses humorous hyperbole to highlight the serious lack of integrity in the political and commercial sectors of American society. By describing these morals as not just laughable, but as an entire 'banquet', he suggests that the corruption and unethical practices are abundant and deeply ingrained.

Themes

PoliticsMoralsEthicsHumorCorruption

In practice

Example use cases

During a speech on ethical business practices, one might use this quote to emphasize the importance of integrity.

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