Was man, indeed, at once so powerful, so virtuous and…
““Was man, indeed, at once so powerful, so virtuous and magnificent, yet so vicious and base? He appeared at one time a mere scion of the evil principle and at another as all that can be conceived of noble and godlike. To be a great and virtuous man appeared the highest honour that can befall a sensitive being; to be base and vicious, as many on record have been, appeared the lowest degradation, a condition more abject than that of the blind mole or harmless worm. For a long time I could not conceive how one man could go forth to murder his fellow, or even why there were laws and governments; but when I heard details of vice and bloodshed, my wonder ceased and I turned away with disgust and loathing.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The passage ponders the duality of human nature, capable of both great virtue and deep depravity, and the confusion it creates.
In simple terms: Human nature contains both good and evil.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and confront both sides of humanity.
Themes
dual nature
morality
conflict
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inquisitive
When to use this quote
- ethical debates
- personal reflection
- historical analysis
Key Concepts
philosophy
human psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do societies nurture virtue?
- What triggers the shift to vice?
A Different Perspective
Human behavior is shaped by environment, not just innate duality.