You made a very strong point, and I agree that history has had many worse forms of inequality, like slavery, colonial rule, etc. I would never argue that today’s inequality is worse than those eras.
My point is slightly different: today’s inequality works in more subtle and psychological ways, which still deeply affect social behavior. People may be legally equal, but when large groups feel locked out of opportunities, frustration grows. That frustration can weaken trust in institutions and in one another, which sometimes spills over into anger, resentment, or violence.
I also agree with your idea about the loss of community and faith. In smaller communities, people knew each other, so there was more accountability and respect. In modern cities, anonymity can reduce the social pressure to behave responsibly. So in a way, I think your point actually strengthens mine: when community weakens, and inequality is felt, the sense of shared responsibility declines even faster.
So I think both things matter: modern inequality and weaker community bonds together can increase disrespect and violence.
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