What does this quote by Mark Twain mean?

I believe this is epitomised by 'power corrupts' in a way. Ones innate compionate nature is dulled by immersion in an inequitable system. Therefore: Those born into privilege are generally predisposed to be ignorant of the plight of those below them on the 'social scale' The exploiter disregards the exploited - whether it be in the realm of Cl: Privileged cl riding roughshod over workers, Slaves: owners disregarding their workers and not according them equal status or Animal: Exploitation of other beings as subordinate because of an overriding acceptable 'norm'. Fortunately this Status Quo - although perceived to be solid is in fact in a continual evolution - thanks to those more liberated thinkers - such as Mark Twain.