Stranger in a Strange Land Freedom and Confinement Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #4

"Because great wealth is a curse—unless you enjoy money-making for its own sake. Even then it has serious drawbacks." (21.151)

Just like the ABBA song, once you get money stuck in your head, you can't get it out. Odd, isn't it? You would think having tons of money would free you from the confines of working. But according to Jubal, you're just confined to making more money. Ah, irony, you delicious, harsh mistress, you.

Quote #5

"Jill, of all the nonsense that twists the world, the concept of 'altruism' is the worst. People do what they want to, every time." (24.17)

Altruism is the idea that someone will act unselfishly, only considering the needs of others. Jubal criticizes this notion. He claims that people will only help others if they want to help others—maybe their reward is that warm, gushy feeling you get when you do a good deed. If this is true, then we can never truly be free of self-interest. What do you think?

Quote #6

Their sins were forgiven—and very little was sinful as long as they supported their church, dealt honestly with fellow Fosterites, condemned sinners, and stayed Happy. (27.124)

The Fosterites have a circular relationship with freedom and confinement. The church's members are free of sin and, perhaps more importantly, the guilt that comes with it. But on the other hand, they are confined to the church and its rules.