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Where we find wrongs done to animals, it is no excuse to…

“Where we find wrongs done to animals, it is no excuse to say that more important wrongs are done to human beings, and let us concentrate on those. A wrong is a wrong, and often the little ones, when they are shrugged off as nothing, spread and do the gravest harm to ourselves and others.” quote by Matthew Scully
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“Where we find wrongs done to animals, it is no excuse to say that more important wrongs are done to human beings, and let us concentrate on those. A wrong is a wrong, and often the little ones, when they are shrugged off as nothing, spread and do the gravest harm to ourselves and others.”

Matthew Scully

About This Quote

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

All harms, even minor ones to animals, are still wrong and can cascade into greater damage for humans, so no wrongdoing should be dismissed.

In simple terms: Every wrongdoing matters; small harms can lead to big problems.

Key Takeaway

Take all harms seriously, no matter how small.

Themes

ethics animal rights human impact consequences justice

Mood

thoughtful urgent

Type

ethical advocacy

When to use this quote

  • policy making
  • animal welfare advocacy
  • education curricula
  • community activism

Key Concepts

moral philosophy environmental ethics social responsibility

Questions to Reflect On

  • What criteria determine the seriousness of a harm?
  • How can we balance attention between animal and human issues?
A Different Perspective

Some may argue hierarchy of harms is necessary for practical decision‑making.

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