Ultimately a highly complex sentiment, having its first…
“Ultimately a highly complex sentiment, having its first origin in the social instincts, largely guided by the approbation of our fellow-men, ruled by reason, self-interest, and in later times by deep religious feelings, confirmed by instruction and habit, all combined, constitute our moral sense or conscience.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human conscience develops from social instincts, desire for approval, rational self‑interest, religion, education, and habit.
In simple terms: Conscience arises from social and personal influences.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the multiple roots of moral feeling.
Themes
morality
social behavior
psychology
religion
education
Mood
reflective
analytical
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
psychological
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- parenting
- community building
Key Concepts
social instinct
approval
reason
self‑interest
religious feeling
habit
conscience
Questions to Reflect On
- How do social approval and personal reason conflict in moral choices?
- Can habit override innate social instincts?
A Different Perspective
May overlook biological determinism, ignoring cultural variability.