The truest definition of evil is that which represents it…
“The truest definition of evil is that which represents it as something contrary to nature; evil is evil because it is unnatural; a vine which should bear olive-berries, an eye to which blue seems yellow, would be diseased; an unnatural mother, an unnatural son, an unnatural act, are the strongest terms of condemnation.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Evil is defined as that which opposes natural order, seen as a corruption or perversion of what is normal.
In simple terms: Evil is something that goes against nature.
Recognize and correct unnatural actions.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- environmental exploitation
- genetic engineering
- cultural taboos
- unjust laws
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What determines what is 'natural' in ethics?
- Can something deemed unnatural be beneficial?
Labeling as 'unnatural' can oversimplify complex moral issues.