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If once we admit, be it for a single hour or in a single…

“If once we admit, be it for a single hour or in a single instance, that there can be anything more important than compassion for a fellow human being, then there is no crime against man that we cannot commit with an easy conscience.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
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“If once we admit, be it for a single hour or in a single instance, that there can be anything more important than compassion for a fellow human being, then there is no crime against man that we cannot commit with an easy conscience.”

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

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

Compassion outweighs all other concerns; without it, any wrongdoing feels justified.

In simple terms: Compassion is paramount; without it, anything seems okay.

Key Takeaway

Prioritize empathy over convenience.

Themes

ethics humanity conscience

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political decisions
  • personal relationships
  • judicial rulings
  • business ethics

Key Concepts

moral philosophy psychology of guilt

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do we ensure compassion isn’t used to rationalize harm?
  • What safeguards prevent moral complacency?
A Different Perspective

Compassion can be manipulated to excuse harmful actions.

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