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It is to the credit of human nature, that, except where…

“It is to the credit of human nature, that, except where its selfishness is brought into play, it loves more readily than it hates. Hatred, by a gradual and quiet process, will even be transformed to love, unless the change be impeded by a continually new irritation of the original feeling of…” quote by Nathaniel Hawthorne
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“It is to the credit of human nature, that, except where its selfishness is brought into play, it loves more readily than it hates. Hatred, by a gradual and quiet process, will even be transformed to love, unless the change be impeded by a continually new irritation of the original feeling of hostility.”

Nathaniel Hawthorne

About This Quote

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

Human nature tends to love more than hate unless selfishness intervenes; hatred can gradually become love unless constantly re‑ignited by new grievances.

In simple terms: Love outweighs hate unless selfishness fuels it.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate patience, avoid feeding resentment.

Themes

human nature love hatred selfishness

Mood

thoughtful hopeful

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • relationships
  • conflict resolution
  • personal growth
  • leadership

Key Concepts

psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • What habits prevent hatred from turning to love?
  • How can we interrupt cycles of irritation?
A Different Perspective

Love may not always overcome deep-seated hatred.

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