In Victor Hugo's "Les Miserables," the author emphasizes the importance of education and enlightenment for all individuals. He suggests that society has failed those who remain uninformed by not providing free access to knowledge. Consequently, society bears responsibility for the ignorance that leads to moral failings and societal issues.

Hugo argues that instead of blaming individuals for their sins, we should look to the systems that create ignorance and despair. The real culprits are those who perpetuate the darkness, failing to nurture a more knowledgeable and enlightened community. By neglecting to educate the less fortunate, society contributes to the perpetuation of sin and ignorance.