The recognition of human wretchedness is difficult for whoever is rich and powerful because he is almost invincibly led to believe that he is something. It is equally difficult for the man in miserable circumstances because he is almost invincibly led to believe that the rich and powerful man is something. [p.216]
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Rich people struggle to recognize human suffering because they believe they matter; poor people struggle because they believe only the rich matter.
- In plain terms
- Both rich and poor find it hard to see human misery due to their beliefs about worth.
- What can you take from it?
- Status distorts the ability to see human suffering.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does wealth blind you?
- What makes empathy difficult?
Another view
It overlooks those who see clearly despite status.
More from Simone Weil
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