"Often the masses are plundered and do not know it"

This quote by Frederic Bastiat speaks with the power of the gentility and their ability to manipulate the masses. He is recommending that the masses are frequently taken advantage of without even understanding it. This might be through tax, laws, or other forms of control. The ruling class is able to utilize their power to make use of the masses for their own gain, while the masses remain uninformed of the circumstance. This quote is an alerting to the masses to be knowledgeable about their rights and to be aware of the power of the ruling class. It is a reminder that the masses need to not be taken advantage of without their knowledge. Bastiat is alerting the masses to be aware of their rights and to be familiar with the power of the gentility. He is suggesting that the masses need to be alert and not permit themselves to be made the most of without their understanding.