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Lorsen shook his head in amazement. 'You truly are…

“Lorsen shook his head in amazement. 'You truly are disgusting.' 'I would be the last to disagree, but you fail to see that you are worse. No man capable of greater evil than the one who thinks himself in the right. No purpose more evil than the higher purpose. I freely admit I am a villain. That's…” quote by Joe Abercrombie
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““Lorsen shook his head in amazement. 'You truly are disgusting.' 'I would be the last to disagree, but you fail to see that you are worse. No man capable of greater evil than the one who thinks himself in the right. No purpose more evil than the higher purpose. I freely admit I am a villain. That's why you hired me. But I am no hypocrite.””

Joe Abercrombie

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

A character admits his own villainy, noting that those convinced they are righteous can commit greater evil than those who recognize their flaws.

In simple terms: Even the so‑called righteous can be the worst villains.

Key Takeaway

Beware self‑righteousness and its hidden harm.

Themes

morality power self‑deception villainy

Mood

cautious reflective critical

Type

philosophical literary dialogue

When to use this quote

  • political leadership
  • corporate decision‑making
  • personal relationships
  • justice systems

Key Concepts

ethical relativism hubris moral ambiguity

Questions to Reflect On

  • Do you ever justify harmful actions by believing you are right?
  • How can we detect hidden villainy in ourselves?
A Different Perspective

The quote may over‑generalize evil, ignoring altruistic motives.

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