Quote by George Bernard Shaw
Between persons of equal income there is no social distinction except the distinction of merit. Money is nothing: character, conduct, and capacity are everything. There would be great people and ordinary people and little people, but the great would always be those who had done great things, and never the idiots whose mothers had spoiled them and whose fathers had left them a hundred thousand a year; and the little would be persons of small minds and mean characters, and not poor persons who had never had a chance. That is why idiots are always in favor of inequality of income (their only chance of eminence), and the really great in favor of equality.
Summary
This quote highlights the importance of merit and character over wealth and social standing. It suggests that among individuals with equal income, the only true distinction lies in their abilities, actions, and values. Money is deemed insignificant compared to qualities like conduct and capacity. The quote also suggests that true greatness is achieved through one's accomplishments, not the privileges bestowed upon them by birth or inheritance. It implies that those who rely on their wealth for eminence are often lacking in character and intelligence, whereas those who truly excel advocate for equality and meritocracy.
Topics
Equality
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