Meaning: The quote by Dorothy Thompson, a prominent American journalist, raises a thought-provoking question about the hypocrisy of holding different beliefs and attitudes towards different groups of people. It challenges the idea that one can preach or support inequality on one hand, while advocating for goodwill and equality towards all people on the other. This quote encapsulates the complex and often contradictory nature of human beliefs and behaviors, particularly in the context of race and nationality.

Dorothy Thompson was known for her incisive commentary on social and political issues, and this quote reflects her astute observations on the inconsistencies in human attitudes and behaviors. In the context of race and nationality, the quote highlights the tension between the values of equality and goodwill on a global scale, and the persistence of discriminatory and prejudiced attitudes on a local or national level.

The concept of inequality of races and nations has been a contentious and deeply ingrained issue throughout history. From colonialism and imperialism to modern-day systemic racism and xenophobia, the unequal treatment of different races and nations has been a pervasive problem. This quote challenges individuals and societies to confront the contradiction between preaching or promoting such inequality while simultaneously advocating for goodwill towards all.

At home, within one's own community or country, it is not uncommon to witness or experience prejudices and discriminatory attitudes towards people of different races or nationalities. These attitudes can manifest in various forms, including institutional discrimination, social exclusion, and economic disparities. The quote prompts introspection on how such attitudes can coexist with the universal value of goodwill and equality for all.

On the global stage, there are often calls for international cooperation, unity, and mutual respect among nations and peoples. Advocating for goodwill towards all men reflects an aspiration for a world where individuals are valued and treated equally regardless of their race, nationality, or background. However, as the quote suggests, these aspirations can be undermined by the persistence of prejudiced attitudes and discriminatory practices at home.

In the context of history, the quote resonates with the legacy of colonialism and imperialism, where dominant powers espoused ideals of progress and civilization while simultaneously subjugating and exploiting people from colonized nations. It also speaks to the present-day realities of immigration policies, refugee crises, and global economic disparities, where the rhetoric of equality and goodwill often clashes with the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities.

Furthermore, the quote raises questions about the role of individuals, communities, and nations in addressing these contradictions. It challenges people to examine their own beliefs and actions, as well as the policies and practices of their societies. It calls for a critical examination of how attitudes of inequality and discrimination are perpetuated, and how they contradict the professed values of goodwill and equality.

In conclusion, Dorothy Thompson's quote encapsulates the tension between the promotion of inequality at home and the advocacy for goodwill towards all globally. It serves as a reminder of the complexities and contradictions inherent in human attitudes and behaviors, particularly in the context of race and nationality. By prompting reflection and introspection, the quote encourages individuals and societies to confront these contradictions and strive for a more consistent and genuine commitment to equality and goodwill for all.