Hunger does not breed reform; it breeds madness, and all the ugly distempers that make an ordered life impossible

Hunger does not breed reform; it breeds madness, and all the ugly distempers that make an ordered life impossible

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, was a man who understood the power of hunger and its potential to drive individuals to extreme measures. In his famous quote, “Hunger does not breed reform; it breeds madness, and all the ugly distempers that make an ordered life impossible,” Wilson captured the essence of how deprivation can lead to chaos and disorder.

Wilson’s words are particularly poignant when considering his presidency, which was marked by significant challenges and upheavals. During his time in office, Wilson faced the aftermath of World War I, the fight for women’s suffrage, and the push for labor reform. In each of these instances, hunger – whether physical, emotional, or social – played a central role in shaping the course of events.