"Women, in fact, are the greatest political activists of all time. They have been protesting since men discovered fire was a more efficient way than women carrying it on their heads."
The quote underscores Gail Collins' perspective that women have consistently been at the forefront of activism, advocacy, and change throughout history. By referring to "protesting," she implies that women have long expressed their dissatisfaction or opposition to various societal norms and injustices, from ancient times (when women carried fire on their heads) to modern-day movements for gender equality and social justice. The quote emphasizes the resilience and determination of women in demanding change and improving their circumstances over time.
"If you're going to be stupid, you should at least have the decency to be original."
This quote emphasizes a sense of responsibility that comes with one's actions or words, especially when they are unwise or foolish. Gail Collins suggests that if someone is going to act irrationally or make poor decisions, they should at least strive to be unique or creative rather than repeating the same mistakes as others. The underlying message encourages critical thinking and originality even in less-than-ideal situations.
"There is a reason that they say marriage is a great equalizer. And that reason is, of course, divorce."
This quote by Gail Collins suggests that marriage, while initially meant to unite two people in an equal partnership, can serve as a significant leveler or revealing force, particularly when it comes to underlying power dynamics and compatibility. The implication is that the process of divorce often exposes these disparities, leading to a greater understanding of who each partner truly is, and thus potentially revealing their equality or inequality. Divorce in this context can serve as a form of equalization by shedding light on the reality of the relationship, enabling each person to move forward with more self-awareness and perhaps make healthier choices in future relationships.
"A leader who doesn't hate being opposed, who doesn't bully and belittle his opponents, won't ever inspire such devotion among his followers that they will do anything for him."
This quote highlights the importance of respect, humility, and fairness in leadership. A leader who tolerates opposition, refrains from intimidation and insults towards opponents, fosters an environment where cooperation is valued over blind loyalty, ultimately builds a more resilient and ethical following. Such leaders inspire their followers through shared values, mutual respect, and the pursuit of common goals, rather than through fear or manipulation.
"In the great debate over whether the glass is half empty or half full, I stand firmly with those who think the glass is a stupid way to transport liquids."
This quote by Gail Collins expresses a perspective of pragmatism and skepticism towards superficial arguments or debates that lack substance, using the metaphorical "glass half empty/half full" analogy as an example. It suggests that she prefers to focus on more significant issues rather than engage in pointless debates or discussions that do not offer solutions or progress. The quote also implies a touch of humor and wit in her approach to life, viewing the common phrase as nonsensical or trivial.
I kind of think that if you show conspiracy theorists a photo of the dead Bin Laden they will come up with an explanation for why it's really a Photoshopped picture of Bin Laden asleep. Or his dead cousin Fred. Donald Trump apparently believes that Bin Laden is dead, so that ought to be enough for the Middle East.
- Gail Collins
During the Obama years, the Republicans have done an unprecedented amount of stonewalling on cabinet-and-below appointees. I would also argue that their war on judicial nominees has been way beyond what went before. Really, if the president nominated God to serve on the D.C. Court of Appeals, Mitch McConnell would threaten a filibuster.
- Gail Collins
For the undocumented immigrants, the big priority is just to get out from the shadows, be able to get a driver's license, buy an airplane ticket and stop worrying about sudden deportation. But for the country as a whole, it's crucial that everybody have a citizen's stake in the nation's welfare.
- Gail Collins
It's possible that you have been told a time or 10 that you don't appreciate how tough your elders had it. It's true that, if you had been coming of age back in, say, 1960, you would probably be feeling more restricted, if only because you were doomed to spend your days in a skirt, nylon stockings and girdle.
- Gail Collins
Certainly Nancy Reagan had an extraordinary effect on her husband. I'm truly not sure that, say, Laura Bush had that much effect on the Bush administration. She certainly, you know, seems to be a nice person who I think the public likes. But I can't really put my finger on any huge impact she's had.
- Gail Collins
Until Eleanor Roosevelt, there was only one or two First Ladies in all of American history who made an impact, who people could even have recognized or identified. And it's really only been since Jackie Kennedy that there's been this idea that the family life of the president is such a central thing.
- Gail Collins
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