Every instinct that is found in any man is in all men. The…
“Every instinct that is found in any man is in all men. The strength of the emotion may not be so overpowering, the barriers against possession not so insurmountable, the urge to accomplish the desire less keen. With some, inhibitions and urges may be neutralized by other tendencies. But with every being the primal emotions are there. All men have an emotion to kill; when they strongly dislike some one they involuntarily wish he was dead. I have never killed any one, but I have read some obituary notices with great satisfaction.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Human beings share basic primal emotions, including violent urges, though they are often suppressed by other drives and social norms.
In simple terms: All people have violent thoughts, but they are usually controlled.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and manage destructive impulses.
Themes
human nature
violence
selfcontrol
psychology
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
psychological
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- conflict resolution
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
primal urges
social conditioning
moral restraint
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you handle unwanted aggressive thoughts?
- What mechanisms help you suppress harmful urges?
A Different Perspective
Violent impulses can be intensified by stress or trauma.