There is in man a specific lust for cruelty which infects…
“There is in man a specific lust for cruelty which infects even his passion of pity and makes it savage.”
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 harbors a deep cruelty that can corrupt even compassionate feelings, turning them savage.
In simple terms: Cruelty can poison pity.
Beware of hidden cruelty.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- social policy
- justice systems
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does cruelty manifest in everyday interactions?
- Can compassion survive in a cruel environment?
Cruelty may be rationalized, obscuring accountability.