Yet I am not more sure that my soul lives, than I am that…
“Yet I am not more sure that my soul lives, than I am that perverseness is one of the primitive impulses of the human heart - one of the indivisible primary faculties, or sentiments, which give direction to the character of Man. Who has not, a hundred times, found himself committing a vile or a silly action, for no other reason than because he knows he should not? Have we not a perpetual inclination, in the teeth of our best judgment, to violate that which is Law, merely because we understand it to be such?”
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 often act against known law due to an innate rebellious impulse, revealing a conflict between reason and primitive drives.
In simple terms: We sometimes break rules simply because we know they exist.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and channel inner contradictions.
Themes
human nature
morality
inner conflict
Mood
thoughtful
introspective
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- ethical decision‑making
- self‑reflection
- behavioral studies
Key Concepts
psychology
philosophy
free will
Questions to Reflect On
- What inner drives motivate your choices?
- How can you align impulses with ethical goals?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on rebellion may excuse harmful behavior.