There are moments, psychologists tell us, when the passion…
“There are moments, psychologists tell us, when the passion for sin, or what the world calls sin, so dominates a nature, that every fibre of the body, as every cell of the brain, seems to be instinct with fearful impulses. Men and women at such moments lose the freedom of their will. They move to their terrible end as automatons move. Choice is taken from them, and conscience is either killed, or, if it lives at all, lives but to give rebellion its fascination, and disobedience its charm.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Intense passion can overwhelm rational will, turning people into automatons; conscience may be suppressed, yet it can still spark rebellion and allure.
In simple terms: Strong passions can dominate and limit free will.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and temper overwhelming passions.
Themes
psychology
free will
passion
conscience
Mood
dramatic
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- addiction recovery
- moral crises
- creative inspiration
- stress management
Key Concepts
addiction
moral conflict
psychic compulsion
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you maintain autonomy under strong urges?
- What role does conscience play when desire dominates?
A Different Perspective
Passion can be destructive if unchecked.