Meaning: The quote "Yes, disappointment over perceived unfairness, injustice, promises not kept, tends to go hand in hand with increasing prosperity. Expectations are dashed. What can I say!" by Mary Douglas, a prominent British anthropologist and social theorist, captures the complex relationship between increasing wealth and the disillusionment that often accompanies it. In this quote, Douglas suggests that as individuals experience greater prosperity, they may also encounter feelings of disappointment and dissatisfaction due to unmet expectations and perceived injustices.

Mary Douglas is best known for her work in the field of cultural anthropology and sociology, particularly for her contributions to the study of human culture and symbolism. Throughout her career, she explored the ways in which individuals and societies make sense of the world around them, often through the lens of cultural and symbolic systems. Her insights into the complexities of human behavior and social dynamics have had a profound impact on the fields of anthropology, sociology, and beyond.

The quote reflects Douglas's keen understanding of the human experience and the paradoxical nature of prosperity. On the surface, one might assume that increasing wealth and prosperity would lead to greater satisfaction and contentment. However, Douglas challenges this assumption by highlighting the correlation between rising prosperity and the accompanying disillusionment. She suggests that as individuals' material wealth grows, so too do their expectations and desires, often leading to a sense of disappointment when those expectations are not met.

The concept of perceived unfairness and injustice in the quote speaks to the idea that as individuals strive for greater prosperity, they may become more attuned to the disparities and inequities that exist within society. This heightened awareness of social and economic injustices can lead to feelings of disillusionment and frustration, particularly when promises of a better life or a more just society remain unfulfilled.

Furthermore, the notion of "promises not kept" alludes to the idea that as individuals pursue prosperity, they may encounter broken promises or unfulfilled expectations, whether from societal institutions, economic systems, or interpersonal relationships. This sense of disappointment stemming from unmet promises can be particularly poignant in the context of increasing prosperity, as the gap between expectations and reality widens.

The quote also suggests that dashed expectations are an inevitable consequence of the pursuit of prosperity. As individuals strive for greater wealth and success, they may develop heightened expectations for what their lives should entail. However, these expectations are not always met, leading to a sense of disillusionment and disappointment. This phenomenon reflects the psychological and emotional complexities that accompany the pursuit of prosperity, as individuals navigate the tension between their aspirations and the reality of their circumstances.

In conclusion, Mary Douglas's quote offers a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of human experience in the context of increasing prosperity. By highlighting the correlation between rising wealth and the accompanying disillusionment, Douglas invites us to consider the intricate interplay between expectations, perceived injustices, and the pursuit of prosperity. Her words resonate with a deep understanding of human behavior and societal dynamics, challenging us to ponder the nuanced relationship between wealth and discontent.