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Moral sense is almost completely ignored by modern…

“Moral sense is almost completely ignored by modern society. We have, in fact, suppressed its manifestations. All are imbued with irresponsibility. Those who discern good and evil, who are industrious and provident, remain poor and are looked upon as morons. The woman who has several children, who…” quote by Alexis Carrel
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““Moral sense is almost completely ignored by modern society. We have, in fact, suppressed its manifestations. All are imbued with irresponsibility. Those who discern good and evil, who are industrious and provident, remain poor and are looked upon as morons. The woman who has several children, who devotes herself to their education, instead of to her own career, is considered weak-minded. If a man saves a little money for his wife and the education of his children, this money is stolen from him by enterprising financiers. Or taken by the government and distributed to those who have been reduced to want by their own improvidence and the shortsightedness of manufacturers, bankers, and economists. Artists and men of science supply the community with beauty, health, and wealth. They live and die in poverty. Robbers enjoy prosperity in peace. Gangsters are protected by politicians and respected by judges. They are the heroes whom children admire at the cinema and imitate in their games. A rich man has every right. He may discard his aging wife, abandon his old mother to penury, rob those who have entrusted their money to him, without losing the consideration of his friends. ...Ministers have rationalized religion. They have destroyed its mystical basis. But they do not succeed in attracting modern men. In their half-empty churches they vainly preach a weak morality. They are content with the part of policemen, helping in the interest of the wealthy to preserve the framework of present society. Or, like politicians, they flatter the appetites of the crowd.””

Alexis Carrel

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Modern society devalues moral virtue, rewarding selfishness while punishing responsibility and virtue.

In simple terms: Society rewards selfishness, punishes virtue.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and support moral actions despite systemic bias.

Themes

morality social injustice economic inequality power dynamics cultural critique

Mood

cynical reflective determined

Type

critical philosophical social commentary

When to use this quote

  • activism
  • community building
  • ethical education
  • policy reform
  • support for caregivers

Key Concepts

ethical philosophy social contract political economy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can individuals uphold morality in a corrupt system?
  • What structures can protect the virtuous from exploitation?
A Different Perspective

Moral actions may be suppressed by powerful interests, limiting impact.

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