Meaning: Mikhail Bakunin, a Russian revolutionary and anarchist, was a prominent figure in the 19th-century political landscape. The quote you provided captures Bakunin's strong belief in the corrupting influence of privilege, whether it be political or economic. Bakunin's ideas were deeply rooted in his opposition to hierarchical power structures and his advocacy for a stateless society based on voluntary associations and mutual aid.

Bakunin's assertion that the privileged man is "depraved in intellect and heart" reflects his conviction that those who hold positions of privilege are fundamentally corrupted by their power. In Bakunin's view, the accumulation of wealth and power leads to moral and intellectual decay, as it distances individuals from the struggles and experiences of the majority of people. This sentiment aligns with the anarchist critique of hierarchical systems, where the concentration of power in the hands of a few is seen as inherently oppressive and dehumanizing.

Bakunin's critique of privilege is multifaceted, encompassing both economic and political dimensions. Economically privileged individuals, in his view, benefit from an unjust system that perpetuates inequality and exploitation. This economic privilege, Bakunin argues, not only perpetuates material disparities but also fosters a sense of entitlement and detachment from the suffering of others. Similarly, political privilege, whether in the form of state power or authority within hierarchical organizations, is seen as inherently corrupting, as it allows individuals to exert control over others and shield themselves from accountability.

The concept of privilege is central to Bakunin's critique of the existing social order. Privilege, in his analysis, serves to perpetuate the existing power structures and perpetuate the subjugation of the masses. Bakunin's vision of a liberated society is one in which privilege is abolished, and individuals relate to one another on the basis of equality and solidarity rather than domination and exploitation.

Bakunin's ideas have left a lasting impact on political and social thought, particularly within anarchist and socialist circles. His critique of privilege continues to resonate in contemporary discussions about inequality, power, and social justice. In a world where disparities in wealth and influence persist, Bakunin's words serve as a reminder of the corrosive effects of privilege and the urgent need to challenge and transform systems that perpetuate inequality and exploitation.

In conclusion, Mikhail Bakunin's quote on privilege encapsulates his deep-seated belief in the corrupting influence of power and privilege. His critique extends to both economic and political realms, highlighting the ways in which privilege perpetuates inequality and fosters moral and intellectual decay. Bakunin's ideas continue to inspire critiques of hierarchical power structures and calls for a more just and equitable society.