Our excessive tolerance with regard to suicide is due to…
“Our excessive tolerance with regard to suicide is due to the fact that, since the state of mind from which it springs is a general one, we cannot condemn it without condemning ourselves; we are too saturated with it not partly to excuse it.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Societal tolerance of suicide stems from a shared mental state, making condemnation feel like self‑condemnation; we are desensitized.
In simple terms: We tolerate suicide because it reflects a common mindset, making it hard to condemn.
Key Takeaway
Reflect on societal attitudes toward mental health.
Themes
society
morality
mental health
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- public policy
- counseling
- education
- media coverage
Key Concepts
philosophical
social theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies address suicide without self‑condemnation?
- What role does empathy play?
A Different Perspective
Over‑generalization may ignore individual circumstances.