At the advent of danger there are always two voices that…
““At the advent of danger there are always two voices that speak with equal force in the human heart: one very reasonably invites a man to consider the nature of the peril and the means of escaping it; the other, with a still greater show of reason, argues that it is too depressing and painful to think of the danger since it is not in man's power to foresee everything and avert the general march of events, and it is better therefore to shut one's eyes to the disagreeable until it actually comes, and to think instead of what is pleasant. When a man is alone he generally listens to the first voice; in the company of his fellow-men, to the second.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
When faced with danger, reason urges assessment and action, while comfort seeks distraction; solitude favors rational analysis, whereas social settings often promote avoidance.
In simple terms: Two inner voices: one pushes to confront danger, the other to ignore it.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and balance both impulses.
Themes
caution
social influence
decision making
fear
solitude
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal crisis
- team meetings
- emergency planning
- mental health counseling
Key Concepts
risk assessment
psychology
group dynamics
cognitive bias
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you tend to confront or avoid threats when alone?
- How does group pressure affect your risk perception?
A Different Perspective
Avoiding danger can lead to unpreparedness and missed opportunities for growth.