“Equality has a built-in revolutionary force lacking in such ideas as justice or liberty. For once the ideal of equality becomes uppermost, it can become insatiable in its demands.It is possible to conceive of human beings conceding that they have enough freedom or justice in a social order; it is not possible to imagine them ever declaring they have enough equality-once, that is, equality becomes a cornerstone of national policy. In this respect it resembles some of the religious ideals or passions that offer, just by virtue of the impossibility of ever giving them adequate representation in the actual world, almost unlimited potentialities for continuous onslaught against institutions.”
Quote Analysis:
In this quote by Robert Nisbet, the idea of equality is examined as a potent force for transformation within society. Nisbet argues that unlike justice or liberty, equality has the ability to continuously drive change and progress. Once the concept of equality is embraced and prioritized, it becomes a powerful and relentless force that can continually challenge and reshape existing institutions and systems. Nisbet suggests that the pursuit of equality is akin to a never-ending quest, with an insatiable demand for more fairness and equal opportunity. This unquenchable desire for equality can lead to a revolutionary spirit that propels societies forward and pushes for constant advancement and improvement.
Modern Relevance of the Quote by Robert Nisbet
Robert Nisbet's quote highlights the transformative power of the idea of equality and its unending quest for fulfillment. In today's society, the pursuit of equality continues to drive movements for social justice and equity. The concept of equality serves as a catalyst for challenging existing power structures and advocating for change.
Analysis of the Revolutionary Force of Equality
In this quote by Robert Nisbet, the concept of equality is portrayed as a powerful force that has the potential to drive societal change. Nisbet argues that once equality becomes a central focus, it becomes insatiable in its demands and can lead to continuous challenges to existing institutions. This highlights the transformative and revolutionary nature of the pursuit of equality in a society.
Reflection Questions
Reflecting on the quote by Robert Nisbet, consider the following questions:
- In what ways do you see the concept of equality as having a revolutionary force?
- How does the idea of equality differ from concepts like justice and liberty, according to Nisbet?
- Do you agree that humans are more likely to continuously strive for more equality than for freedom or justice? Why or why not?
- How might the pursuit of equality impact societal institutions and norms?
- In what ways can the ideal of equality be both empowering and challenging for individuals and societies?
Similar quotes
“Justice has always evoked ideas of equality, of proportion of compensation. Equity signifies equality. Rules and regulations, right and righteousness are concerned with equality in value.If all men are equal, then all men are of the same essence, and the common essence entitles them of the same fundamental rights and equal liberty... In short justice is another name of liberty, equality and fraternity.”
“I have no respect for the passion of equality, which seems to me merely idealizing envy.”
“Democracy extends the sphere of individual freedom, socialism restricts it. Democracy attaches all possible value to each man; socialism makes each man a mere agent, a mere number. Democracy and socialism have nothing in common but one word: equality. But notice the difference: while democracy seeks equality in liberty, socialism seeks equality in restraint and servitude.”
“Democracy extends the sphere of individual freedom; socialism restricts it. Democracy attaches all possible value to each man; socialism makes each man a mere agent, a mere number. Democracy and socialism have nothing in common but one word: equality. But notice the difference: while democracy seeks equality in liberty, socialism seeks equality in restraint and servitude.”
“The idea of equality is a by-product of the sentiment of envy. Since it must always prove beyond human ower to raise the inferior mass to a superior stratum, apostles of equality must ever be inferiors seeking to reduce their betters to their level. It follows that a nation that once admits this doctrine of equality will be dragged by it to the level, moral, intelletual and political, of its most worthless class.”