They took it, too, like Napoleon's soldiers. And they had the Jews and the Negroes to look down on, more and more. The M.M.'s saw to that. Every man is a king so long as he has someone to look down on. *
In Sinclair Lewis's novel "It Can't Happen Here," there is a stark observation about human nature and societal hierarchies. The quote suggests that individuals often derive a sense of superiority and identity by looking down on others. It highlights a troubling dynamic where certain groups, like the Jews and African Americans, are marginalized, thus allowing those in power to feel elevated in status. This manipulation of social dynamics serves as a means to distract from broader societal issues and reinforce existing power structures.
Moreover, the reference to Napoleon's soldiers implies that the pursuit of dominance over others can lead to moral decay and loss of individual autonomy. The men mentioned, perhaps representing the common populace, mimic historical examples of blind loyalty while rationalizing their prejudices. By creating an "us versus them" mentality, they inadvertently accept a subservient role within a corrupt system, ultimately betraying ideals of equality and justice. This commentary serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of relinquishing critical thought in favor of misguided loyalty.
