Between richer and poorer classes in a free country a mutually respecting antagonism is much healthier than pity on the one hand and dependence on the other, as is, perhaps, the next best thing to fraternal feeling.

Summary

This quote suggests that in a free country, it is preferable to have a healthy and respectful conflict between the richer and poorer classes, rather than the poor being pitied and dependent on the rich. The quote implies that a balanced sense of mutual respect and antagonism allows for a more equitable interaction between the classes, fostering a sense of independence and self-sufficiency among the disadvantaged. It also implies that this dynamic, while not ideal, can be considered a step towards achieving a sense of unity and brotherhood between different social classes.

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