“Privileged people don't march and protest; their world is safe and clean and governed by laws designed to keep them happy.”
In this quote, John Grisham is highlighting the disconnect that privileged individuals may have with the harsh realities that marginalized communities face. The statement suggests that those who enjoy privilege and societal advantages are less likely to engage in activism or try to challenge the status quo because they are content with the existing system that benefits them. The reference to a "safe and clean world" implies a sense of comfort and security that privileged individuals may experience, contrasting with the struggles and injustices faced by others. Overall, the quote underscores the idea that privilege can create a barrier to understanding and addressing systemic inequalities.
In today's society, the quote by John Grisham holds significant relevance as it speaks to the idea of privilege and how it shapes individuals' perceptions and actions in the world. From the perspective of privileged individuals, the world may indeed seem safe, clean, and governed by laws that cater to their needs and desires. This can lead to a lack of understanding or empathy towards those who do not share the same level of privilege and may contribute to social disparities and injustices.
“Privileged people don't march and protest; their world is safe and clean and governed by laws designed to keep them happy.” - John Grisham
Reflecting on the quote by John Grisham, consider the following questions to deepen your understanding:
“I don't feel stupid, just inadequate. After three years of studying the law, I'm very much aware of how little I know.”
“The mother of a trophy wife is not automatically a trophy mother-in-law.”
“She was pondering the option of law school, the great American baby-sitter for directionless postgrads.”
“We cuss them because we're not good enough for them. We hate them because they wouldn't look at us, couldn't be bothered to give us an interview. I guess there's a Trent & Brent in every city, in every field. I didn't make it and I don't belong, so I'll just go through life hating them.”
“Like a snake creeping through the undergrowth, I sneak into the law school well past noon and hours after both of my scheduled classes have broken up.”
“Look at me," he said, glancing down at his legs. "A wretched old man in a red monkey suit. A convicted murderer about to be gassed like an animal. And look at you. A fine young man with a beautiful education and a bright future. Where in the world did I go wrong? What happened to me?I've spent my life hating people, and look what I have to show for it. You, you don't hate anybody. And look where you're headed. We have the same blood. Why am I here?”