Quote by Alexis de Tocqueville

It is almost never when a state of things is the most detestable that it is smashed, but when, beginning to improve, it permits men to breathe, to reflect, to communicate their thoughts with each other, and to gauge by what they already have the extent of their rights and their grievances. The weight, although less heavy, seems then all the more unbearable.

It is almost never when a state of things is the most detest

Summary

This quote suggests that oppressive systems or situations are not often dismantled when they are at their worst, but rather when there is a slight improvement that allows people to find some relief. When individuals are able to breathe, think, discuss their thoughts openly, and assess their rights and grievances, they become more aware of the weight of oppression. The quote implies that the incremental progress can sometimes make the remaining burden feel even more unbearable, motivating people to take action and seek further change.

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By Alexis de Tocqueville

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