If a test of civilization be sought, none can be so sure as the condition of that half of society over which the other half has power.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The well-being of the powerless is the true measure of a civilization's moral standing.
- In plain terms
- A society is judged by how it treats the people it controls.
- What can you take from it?
- Power over others defines ethical progress.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How is power used in your community?
- Who has no say in your society?
Another view
Some argue economic metrics are better measures of civilization.
More from Harriet Martineau
For my own part, I had rather suffer any inconvenience from having to work occasionally in chambers and kitchen ... than witness the subservience in which the …
Permalink to quote #2 Fidelity to conscience is inconsistent with retiring modesty. If it be so, let the modesty succumb. It can be only a false modesty which can be thus endangered.
Permalink to quote #3 What office is there which involves more responsibility, which requires more qualifications, and which ought, therefore, to be more honourable, than that of te…
Permalink to quote #4
Related quotes
Wir durfen nicht zulassen, da? die Starke des Rechts durch das Recht des Starkeren ersetzt wird.
Gerhard SchroderGerhard Schroder quote #1 I may say this is a deluded generation, veiled with ignorance, that tho popery and slavery be riding in upon them, do not perceive it; tho I am sure there was …
Richard RumboldRichard Rumbold quote #1 I work not only for the OJs, but also the No Js. - In reference to many low income clients he represented.[1]
Johnnie CochranJohnnie Cochran quote #2