The difference between our decadence and the Russians is that while theirs is brutal, ours is apathetic.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Thurber contrasts two forms of societal decline: one characterized by violence and the other by indifference.
- In plain terms
- Our downfall is due to not caring, while theirs is due to being cruel.
- What can you take from it?
- Indifference can be as destructive as brutality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Which form of decline is more dangerous?
- Is apathy a choice?
Another view
It oversimplifies complex national behaviors into binary traits.
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