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If one wants to be an ox one can easily turn one's back on…

“If one wants to be an ox one can easily turn one's back on hum suffering and look after one's own skin.” quote by Karl Marx
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“If one wants to be an ox one can easily turn one's back on hum suffering and look after one's own skin.”

Karl Marx

About This Quote

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

He suggests that people can avoid suffering by focusing on self-interest, likening them to oxen that turn away from pain.

In simple terms: Selfishness can shield one from suffering.

Key Takeaway

Consider empathy over self‑preservation.

Themes

selfishness avoidance pain

Mood

critical philosophical

Type

ethical social

When to use this quote

  • personal relationships
  • workplace
  • political discourse

Key Concepts

Human nature ethical choice

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is avoiding suffering worth losing compassion?
  • What are the costs of turning away from others?
A Different Perspective

Self‑interest may lead to isolation and moral decay.

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