"There is a tone of morality throughout the rural districts of England, which is unhappily wanting in the large towns and the centres of particular manufactures"
- Henry Mayhew
About this Quote
This quote by Henry Mayhew talks to the ethical differences in between rural and city locations in England. Mayhew suggests that morality is more widespread in rural districts than in large towns and manufacturing centers. This implies that individuals living in backwoods are more likely to abide by moral standards than those living in metropolitan areas. This could be due to the fact that backwoods are more separated and have less access to the temptations of city life. Additionally, backwoods tend to have a stronger sense of community, which could result in a higher focus on morality. On the other hand, big towns and production centers are often more populated and have more access to vices, which could lead to a reduction in moral standards. Mayhew's quote highlights the distinctions between rural and city areas in regards to morality, and recommends that backwoods are more likely to support ethical values.
About the Author