Meaning: This quote by William Kunstler draws an analogy between the behavior of a dog and a liberal, and that of a cat. The comparison is intended to highlight the differing attitudes and motivations of dogs and liberals on one hand, and cats on the other. It's important to note that this quote reflects the personal opinion and perspective of William Kunstler, who was a prominent civil rights lawyer and activist known for his outspoken and often controversial views on a wide range of social and political issues.

The first part of the quote, "A dog is like a liberal. He wants to please everybody," suggests that dogs, known for their loyal and friendly nature, seek to gain approval and affection from everyone they encounter. In the context of the analogy, Kunstler seems to be implying that liberals, with their emphasis on inclusivity and social harmony, share a similar desire to be liked and accepted by a broad range of people. This comparison could be interpreted as a commentary on the perceived tendency of liberals to prioritize consensus and compromise in their interactions and decision-making, in an effort to accommodate diverse viewpoints and win over as many individuals as possible.

On the other hand, the second part of the quote, "A cat really doesn't need to know that everybody loves him," contrasts the behavior of cats with that of dogs and, by extension, with the attitude attributed to liberals in the analogy. Cats are often characterized as independent and self-assured animals that are less concerned with seeking approval or affirmation from others. They are known for their aloof and solitary nature, and are perceived as being content to exist on their own terms, without constantly seeking validation from others. In the context of the analogy, this part of the quote could be interpreted as a commentary on the perceived self-assurance and independence of individuals or groups who do not feel the need to constantly seek the approval or validation of others, in contrast to the behavior attributed to dogs and, by extension, to liberals.

It's worth noting that Kunstler's use of the terms "liberal" and "conservative" in the quote may reflect the historical and cultural context in which he expressed this sentiment. The quote could be seen as a reflection of Kunstler's perspective on the social and political dynamics of his time, and how he perceived the behavior and motivations of individuals associated with different ideological or social groups.

In analyzing this quote, it's important to recognize that it represents a subjective viewpoint and may not be universally applicable or representative of all dogs, cats, liberals, or any other group being referenced. The analogy drawn by Kunstler serves as a thought-provoking commentary on human behavior and social dynamics, inviting reflection on the ways in which individuals and groups seek validation, express independence, and navigate their relationships with others.

In conclusion, William Kunstler's quote draws a thought-provoking analogy between the behavior of dogs and liberals, as well as that of cats, to highlight differing attitudes and motivations. Whether one agrees with the analogy or not, it prompts reflection on the complexities of human behavior and the varied ways individuals and groups seek validation, express independence, and navigate their relationships with others.