Subordination tends greatly to human happiness. Were we all upon an equality, we should have no other enjoyment than mere animal pleasure.

Summary

This quote suggests that hierarchical social structures, where some individuals are subordinated to others, contribute significantly to human satisfaction. It implies that without this hierarchy, devoid of any distinctions or rankings, people would only experience basic, instinctual pleasures similar to those of animals. In essence, the quote proposes that a sense of subordination or inequality is essential in providing a more meaningful and fulfilling existence for humans beyond mere physical pleasures.

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