Mr. J.S. Mill speaks, in his celebrated work…
“Mr. J.S. Mill speaks, in his celebrated work, "Utilitarianism," of the social feelings as a "powerful natural sentiment," and as "the natural basis of sentiment for utilitarian morality," but on the previous page he says, "if, as is my own belief, the moral feelings are not innate, but acquired, they are not for that reason less natural." It is with hesitation that I venture to differ from so profound a thinker, but it can hardly be disputed that the social feelings are instinctive or innate in the lower animals; and why should they not be so in man?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Mill argues social feelings are natural and can be acquired, suggesting they are innate in humans like animals.
In simple terms: Social feelings are natural and can be learned.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and nurture innate social empathy.
Themes
ethics
human nature
psychology
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- education
- policy making
- community building
- mental health
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
utilitarianism
innateness
acquisition
Questions to Reflect On
- Are social feelings truly innate or culturally shaped?
- How do we balance innate empathy with learned biases?
A Different Perspective
Human social feelings may be shaped by culture, limiting innate assumptions.