how incongruous and irrational the common temper of…
““how incongruous and irrational the common temper of mankind is, especially of youth, to that reason which ought to guide them in such cases—viz. that they are not ashamed to sin, and yet are ashamed to repent; not ashamed of the action for which they ought justly to be esteemed fools, but are ashamed of the returning, which only can make them be esteemed wise men.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often act foolishly, feeling shame for repentance despite sinning, revealing irrational moral standards.
In simple terms: Shame for repentance despite sin reveals irrational morals.
Key Takeaway
Question societal moral contradictions.
Themes
morality
hypocrisy
youth
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- education
- justice reform
- personal growth
Key Concepts
ethical theory
social psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we shame repentance more than sin?
- How can rational guidance replace irrational temper?
A Different Perspective
Moral judgments vary across cultures.