Science in the modern world has many uses; its chief use, however, is to provide long words to cover the errors of the rich. The word 'kleptomania' is a vulgar example of what I mean. It is on a par with that strange theory, always advanced when a wealthy or prominent person is in the dock, that exposure is more of a punishment for the rich than for the poor. Of course, the very reverse is the truth. Exposure is more of a punishment for the poor than for the rich. The richer a man is the easier it is for him to be a tramp. The richer a man is the easier it is for him to be popular and generally respected in the Cannibal Islands. But the poorer a man is the more likely it is that he will have to use his past life whenever he wants to get a bed for the night. Honour is a luxury for aristocrats, but it is a necessity for hall-porters.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Wealthy people often use language and status to escape consequences that punish poorer people severely.
- In plain terms
- Rich people get excuses while poor people get punished for the same things.
- What can you take from it?
- Be aware of unequal consequences based on wealth.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is justice equal for everyone?
- How does wealth change outcomes?
Another view
Sometimes wealthy people do face social consequences.
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