Nature smiles at the union of freedom and equality in our utopias. For freedom and equality are sworn and everlasting enemies, and when one prevails the other dies.
Will DurantRead
In progressive societies the concentration[of wealth] may reach a point where the strength of number in the many poor rivals the strength of ability in the few rich; then the unstable equilibrium generates a critical situation, which history has diversely met by legislation redistributing wealth or by revolution distributing poverty.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the tension between wealth concentration and societal stability.
Will Durant addresses the consequences of wealth concentration in progressive societies, suggesting that when the disparity between the rich and poor becomes too great, it creates a critical situation. This imbalance can lead to historical outcomes such as legislative reforms aimed at wealth redistribution or revolutions that result in widespread poverty, emphasizing the need for a more equitable distribution of resources to maintain social stability.
Themes
WealthSocietyEquilibriumPovertyRichRevolution
In practice
Example use cases
During a discussion on economic inequality, this quote can illustrate the potential consequences of wealth disparity.
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All quotes →The greatest question of our time is not communism vs. individualism, not Europe vs. America, not even the East vs. the West; it is whether men can bear to live without God.
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Philosophy is harmonized knowledge making a harmonious life; it is the self-discipline which lifts us to serenity and freedom. Knowledge is power, but only wisdom is liberty.
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If you wish to be loved, be modest; if you wish to be admired, be proud; if you wish both, combine external modesty with internal pride.
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When liberty destroys order the hunger for order will destroy liberty.
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