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Quote by Anthony Trollope

Work

Barchester Towers

This 19th-century novel delves into the intricate web of politics, religion, and social hierarchy within the fictional town of Barchester. The story unfolds through the lives of various characters, including the Archdeacon, his family, and their interactions with the town's political elite. The novel is renowned for its wit, satirical commentary, and detailed portrayal of Victorian society. more

Author

Anthony Trollope
Anthony Trollope

Anthony Trollope was an English novelist known for his detailed portrayals of Victorian British society. His works often centered around political and administrative themes, showcasing his profound insights into social structures and class divisions. more

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“Meritocracy is a false and not very salutary belief. As with any ideology, part of its draw is that it justifies the status quo, explaining why people belong where they happen to be in the social order. It is a well-established psychological principle that people prefer to believe that the world is just. However, in addition to legitimation, meritocracy also offers flattery. Where success is determined by merit, each win can be viewed as a reflection of one’s own virtue and worth. Meritocracy is the most self-congratulatory of distribution principles. Its ideological alchemy transmutes property into praise, material inequality into personal superiority. It licenses the rich and powerful to view themselves as productive geniuses. While this effect is most spectacular among the elite, nearly any accomplishment can be viewed through meritocratic eyes. Graduating from high school, artistic success or simply having money can all be seen as evidence of talent and effort. By the same token, worldly failures becomes signs of personal defects, providing a reason why those at the bottom of the social hierarchy deserve to remain there. ("A Belief in Meritocracy Is Not Only False: It’s Bad for You", Aeon)”

“Damian: So… why are they running? Aria: I don’t know. Damian: Should we run? Aria: Why? Damian: We are outsiders after all. Aria: So? Damian: So we should run to make it look like we didn’t do it. Aria: But we didn’t do it, so what’s the problem? Damian: But they might think differently. Aria: So? Damian: I think we should run. Aria: You go do that, then. Damian: I’m not running. Aria: Why not? Damian: Because you’re not running. Aria: You’re an idiot; you just said we should run. Damian: I changed my mind. Aria: Why? Damian: Because then it would look like we did it and we’re trying to get out of there. Aria: You’re packin’ brains after all. Damian: I’m always packin’. People just don’t look for those qualities anymore. Aria: I do. Damian: Okay, besides you, most bitches look for what else I’m packin’, if you know what I mean. Aria: Ah, must be why you’re considered the disappointment of your clan. Damian: Go fuck yourself! Aria: Just be quiet.”