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Evil has no substance of its own, but is only the defect…

“Evil has no substance of its own, but is only the defect, excess, perversion, or corruption of that which has substance.” quote by John Henry Newman
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“Evil has no substance of its own, but is only the defect, excess, perversion, or corruption of that which has substance.”

John Henry Newman

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 not a thing itself but a distortion of something that exists, arising from excess or corruption.

In simple terms: Evil is a defect of something real.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and correct excesses.

Themes

morality philosophy theology

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical theological

When to use this quote

  • personal growth
  • spiritual practice
  • ethical decision making

Key Concepts

defect corruption excess

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you differentiate between a flaw and a separate evil?
  • What excesses in your life need correction?
A Different Perspective

Evil can be misidentified as a separate entity.

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