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Society was cut in two: those who had nothing united in common envy; those who had anything united in common terror.
Alexis De Tocqueville
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Interpretation

What this quote means

The quote highlights the divide in society between the poor, who feel envious of the rich, and the rich, who fear losing their status.

Alexis De Tocqueville's quote underscores a significant social divide, suggesting that those without wealth form a bond through their shared envy of those who possess it, while the wealthy, in turn, are united by a common fear of losing their possessions and power. This duality reflects the tensions and conflicts that arise from economic disparities, illustrating how social cohesion can emerge from negative emotions such as envy and fear rather than positive interactions.

Themes

SocietyWealthEnvyFearDivisionEconomy

In practice

Example use cases

In a discussion about economic inequality, this quote can illustrate the emotional dynamics between different social classes.

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Grant me thirty years of equal division of inheritances and a free press, and I will provide you with a republic.
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