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Humans aren't inherently good- a ludicrous proposition…

“Humans aren't inherently good- a ludicrous proposition. Instinctively, people are barbarians. Cannibals, even. They eat each other alive, get off on torture, inflicting pain. This is not the image of the Gospel God. If God is love, and God is infinite, love would by definition be infinite. But…” quote by Ellen Hopkins
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““Humans aren't inherently good- a ludicrous proposition. Instinctively, people are barbarians. Cannibals, even. They eat each other alive, get off on torture, inflicting pain. This is not the image of the Gospel God. If God is love, and God is infinite, love would by definition be infinite. But love, for most, is a means to an end, and even in its purest form, it is fleeting. Not infinite.””

Ellen Hopkins

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Human nature is portrayed as fundamentally selfish and violent, challenging the notion of inherent goodness.

In simple terms: People are often driven by selfish, violent instincts.

Key Takeaway

Recognize the complexity of human behavior.

Themes

human nature violence morality philosophy

Mood

reflective critical philosophical

Type

literary philosophical

When to use this quote

  • social work
  • conflict resolution
  • personal growth
  • education

Key Concepts

psychology sociology existentialism

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is humanity inherently good or bad?
  • How can societies foster compassion despite innate aggression?
A Different Perspective

Assuming inherent goodness may ignore real destructive tendencies.

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