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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.” quote by George Bernard Shaw
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“There is in man a specific lust for cruelty which infects even his passion of pity and makes it savage.”

George Bernard Shaw

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.

Key Takeaway

Beware of hidden cruelty.

Themes

human nature cruelty compassion psychology

Mood

critical reflective

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • social policy
  • justice systems
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

moral corruption emotional conflict

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does cruelty manifest in everyday interactions?
  • Can compassion survive in a cruel environment?
A Different Perspective

Cruelty may be rationalized, obscuring accountability.

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