Skip to content

A life which goes excessively against natural impulse…

“A life which goes excessively against natural impulse is... likely to involve effects of strain that may be quite as bad as indulgence in forbidden impulses would have been. People who live a life which is unnatural beyond a point are likely to be filled with envy, malice and uncharitableness.” quote by Bertrand Russell
Download Open image
“A life which goes excessively against natural impulse is... likely to involve effects of strain that may be quite as bad as indulgence in forbidden impulses would have been. People who live a life which is unnatural beyond a point are likely to be filled with envy, malice and uncharitableness.”

Bertrand Russell

About This Quote

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

Living against one's natural instincts creates strain comparable to indulging forbidden desires, leading to negative emotions like envy and malice.

In simple terms: Going against nature harms you like bad habits do.

Key Takeaway

Align actions with natural impulses.

Themes

ethics psychology human nature

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace dynamics
  • mental health
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

strain envy malice unnatural behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you recognize when you’re acting unnaturally?
  • What steps can restore natural balance?
A Different Perspective

Such strain may be mitigated by self‑compassion and gradual habit change.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Bertrand Russell

Explore all 1,620 Bertrand Russell quotes

More Effects quotes

Browse all 4,169 Effects quotes