“Class is much more than Marx's definition of relationship to the means of production. Class involved your behavior, your basic assumptions, how you are taught to behave, what you expect from yourself and from others, your concept of a future, how you understand problems and solve them, how you think, feel, act.”
In this quote, Rita Mae Brown expands on the traditional Marxist definition of class, which is typically centered around economic factors such as one's relationship to the means of production. Brown argues that class is much more complex and nuanced, encompassing a wide range of factors including behavior, values, expectations, and beliefs. According to Brown, class influences not only how we think and act, but also our understanding of the world and how we approach problems. This quote challenges readers to consider the multidimensional nature of class and how it shapes our identities and interactions with others.
Rita Mae Brown's quote highlights the multifaceted nature of class beyond just economic standing. In today's society, class encompasses various aspects of our lives, shaping our behaviors, beliefs, and expectations. It influences how we perceive ourselves and others, how we approach challenges, and even how we think and feel. Understanding these complexities is crucial in navigating the nuances of social dynamics and interactions in the modern world.
"“Class is much more than Marx's definition of relationship to the means of production. Class involved your behavior, your basic assumptions, how you are taught to behave, what you expect from yourself and from others, your concept of a future, how you understand problems and solve them, how you think, feel, act.” - Rita Mae Brown"
Class goes beyond just economic status and plays a role in shaping various aspects of our lives. Reflect on the following questions to explore how social class influences your behavior, thoughts, and expectations:
“Creativity comes from trust. Trust your instincts. And never hope more than you work.”
“Put your money in your head, that way no one can take it from you.”
“Sorrow is how we learn to love. Your heart isn't breaking. It hurts because it's getting larger. The larger it gets, the more love it holds.”
“If you don't like my book, write your own. If you don't think you can write a novel, that ought to tell you something. If you think you can, do. No excuses. If you still don't like my novel, find a book you do like. Life is too short to be miserable. If you do like my novels, I commend your good taste.”
“Do you think it's possible that love multiples? We're taught to think it divides. There's only so much to go around, like diamonds. It multiples.”
“The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four people is suffering from a mental illness. Look at your 3 best friends. If they're ok, then it's you.”