The good or evil we confer on others very often, I…
“The good or evil we confer on others very often, I believe, recoils on ourselves; for as men of a benign disposition enjoy their own acts of beneficence equally with those to whom they are done, so there are scarce any natures so entirely diabolical as to be capable of doing injuries without paying themselves some pangs for the ruin which they bring on their fellow-creatures.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Good and evil actions reflect back on the actor; even malicious deeds cause personal suffering.
In simple terms: Our deeds affect us back.
Key Takeaway
Consider the moral impact of actions.
Themes
morality
reciprocity
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- personal decisions
- conflict resolution
- ethical education
Key Concepts
ethical theory
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you reconcile harmful actions with self‑interest?
- What safeguards prevent moral blindness?
A Different Perspective
Complex motives can blur moral clarity.