It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible…
““It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses, to remember that the dullest most uninteresting person you can talk to may one day be a creature which,if you saw it now, you would be strongly tempted to worship, or else a horror and a corruption such as you now meet, if at all, only in a nightmare. All day long we are, in some degree helping each other to one or the other of these destinations. It is in the light of these overwhelming possibilities, it is with the awe and the circumspection proper to them, that we should conduct all of our dealings with one another, all friendships, all loves, all play, all politics. There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal. Nations, cultures, arts, civilizations - these are mortal, and their life is to ours as the life of a gnat. But it is immortals whom we joke with, work with, marry, snub, and exploit - immortal horrors or everlasting splendors.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
We must treat every person as potentially divine or monstrous, recognizing the profound impact of our interactions and acting with reverence and caution.
In simple terms: Everyone could be godly or terrible; act with respect.
Key Takeaway
Treat all relationships with awe and care.
Themes
respect
humility
interconnectedness
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- friendship
- politics
- workplace
- family
- community
Key Concepts
theology
ethics
human nature
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you balance reverence with realistic expectations?
- What responsibilities arise from seeing others as potentially immortal?
A Different Perspective
Assuming divinity may lead to unrealistic expectations or manipulation.