When everything is going well and they have full bellies - they are "good and awesome". But let them be gripped by hunger or panic and see just how noble they then act.

I'm sure this is supposed to remind me of a movie quote, but I can't figure it out. Was it something the Joker said in Nolans Batman movies? BTT:

But let them be gripped by hunger or panic

No, let them be well-fed and comfortable. Only psychopaths let others be gripped by hunger and panic.