Meaning: The quote "Our society distributes itself into Barbarians, Philistines and Populace; and America is just ourselves with the Barbarians quite left out, and the Populace nearly." by Matthew Arnold, a renowned poet and cultural critic, is a thought-provoking observation on the social divisions within society. This quote reflects Arnold's views on the cultural and societal dynamics of his time, and it continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about social stratification and cultural attitudes.

In this quote, Arnold categorizes society into three distinct groups: Barbarians, Philistines, and Populace. Each group represents a different aspect of society, and Arnold's commentary on America suggests the presence or absence of these groups within the American societal context.

The first group, the "Barbarians," represents those who are considered to be uncivilized or lacking in cultural refinement. In the context of Arnold's quote, the absence of Barbarians in America implies a certain level of cultural sophistication or refinement within the American society. This observation may reflect Arnold's perception of America as a society that has progressed beyond the primitive or uncultured state often associated with Barbarians.

The second group, the "Philistines," refers to individuals who are materialistic, narrow-minded, and lacking in cultural or intellectual appreciation. Arnold's mention of the Philistines in his quote suggests that this group is still present within the American society, albeit to a lesser extent than in other societies. This implies that America has managed to mitigate the influence of the Philistines to some degree, potentially indicating a greater emphasis on cultural and intellectual pursuits within American society.

Lastly, the "Populace" represents the general population or the masses. Arnold's statement suggests that the Populace is nearly present in America, indicating that the country is predominantly characterized by its ordinary citizens, rather than being overly influenced by the elite or the ruling class. This observation may reflect Arnold's view of America as a society that is more egalitarian and inclusive, where the voice of the common people holds significant sway.

Overall, Arnold's quote offers a nuanced perspective on the social and cultural dynamics of American society, highlighting the absence of certain negative influences while acknowledging the prevalence of the general population. It prompts reflection on the cultural and societal divisions that exist within any given society and invites consideration of how these divisions shape the collective identity and character of a nation.

In conclusion, Matthew Arnold's quote provides a compelling framework for understanding the societal divisions and cultural attitudes of his time, particularly in the context of America. His categorization of society into Barbarians, Philistines, and Populace offers valuable insights into the cultural and social dynamics at play, while his specific commentary on America adds a layer of analysis to the cultural landscape of the country. This quote continues to provoke thoughtful consideration of societal structures and cultural values, inviting individuals to reflect on the presence or absence of these groups within their own societies and the implications thereof.