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But man is a strayed animal, and when he falls victim to…

“But man is a strayed animal, and when he falls victim to doubt, if he should happen to take no further pleasure in attacking others, he turns on himself in order to inflict merciless tortures.” quote by Emil Cioran
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““But man is a strayed animal, and when he falls victim to doubt, if he should happen to take no further pleasure in attacking others, he turns on himself in order to inflict merciless tortures.””

Emil Cioran

About This Quote

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

When doubt overwhelms, one may turn self‑destruction rather than harming others, reflecting inner torment.

In simple terms: Doubt can cause self‑harm.

Key Takeaway

Guard against self‑inflicted suffering.

Themes

existential dread self‑destruction philosophy

Mood

melancholic reflective

Type

philosophical warning

When to use this quote

  • personal crisis
  • mental health
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

nihilism psychology morality

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you channel doubt constructively?
  • What practices prevent self‑destruction?
A Different Perspective

Self‑harm may stem from unresolved doubt, not external threats.

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