I have ever hated all nations, professions, and…
“I have ever hated all nations, professions, and communities, and all my love is toward individuals: for instance, I hate the tribe of lawyers, but I love Counsellor Such-a-one, and Judge Such-a-one: so with physicians—I will not speak of my own trade—soldiers, English, Scotch, French, and the rest. But principally I hate and detest that animal called man, although I heartily love John, Peter, Thomas, and so forth. This is the system upon which I have governed myself many years, but do not tell...”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A skeptical view of humanity that distinguishes personal affection from broader societal disdain, emphasizing individual merit over collective identity.
In simple terms: Individual over group
Key Takeaway
Love people, not labels
Themes
individualism
skepticism
human nature
social critique
personal relationships
moral relativism
Mood
cynical
reflective
wry
Type
aphorism
personal essay
social critique
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- professional interactions
- cultural observations
- ethical debates
- self-reflection
Key Concepts
human nature
social hierarchy
personal bias
moral philosophy
Practical Applications
- philosophical essays
- social commentary
Questions to Reflect On
- How does personal experience shape our judgments of groups?
- Can we reconcile love for individuals with contempt for humanity?