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Quote by Theodore Parker

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Critical Writings

This book is a comprehensive compilation of critical essays, offering in-depth exploration of critical approaches across various fields of study. It includes discussions on literary criticism, cultural studies, and philosophical analysis, providing readers with a broad understanding of critical methodologies. more

Author

Theodore Parker
Theodore Parker

Theodore Parker was an American Unitarian minister, abolitionist, and social reformer. He is recognized for his theological and social writings that had a profound impact on the abolitionist movement and the Unitarian Church. Born on August 24, 1810, Parker dedicated his life to social justice and the fight for the rights of the marginalized. more

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“The Poor Man whom everyone speaks of, the Poor Man whom everyone pities, one of the repulsive Poor from whom charitable souls keep their distance, he has still said nothing. Or, rather, he has spoken through the voice of Victor Hugo, Zola, Richepin. At least, they said so. And these shameful impostures fed their authors. Cruel irony, the Poor Man tormented with hunger feeds those who plead his case.”

“In verity we are the poor. This humanity we would claim for ourselves is the legacy, not only of the Enlightenment, but of the thousands and thousands of European peasants and poor townspeople who came here bringing their humanity and their sufferings with them. It is the absence of a stable upper class that is responsible for much of the vulgarity of the American scene. Should we blush before the visitor for this deficiency?”

“As for the virtuous poor, one can pity them, of course, but one cannot possibly admire them. They have made private terms with the enemy, and sold their birthright for very bad pottage. They must also be extraordinarily stupid.”

“In going to America one learns that poverty is not a necessary accompaniment to civilization.”