All men, in the abstract, are just and good; what hinders…
“All men, in the abstract, are just and good; what hinders them, in the particular, is, the momentary predominance of the finite and individual over the general truth. The condition of our incarnation in a private self, seems to be, a perpetual tendency to prefer the private law, to obey the private impulse, to the exclusion of the law of the universal being.”
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 leans toward selfishness, but universal truth calls for transcending personal bias.
In simple terms: People favor self over universal truth.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize universal principles over personal gain.
Themes
ethics
philosophy
human nature
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- politics
- business decisions
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
individualism
universal truth
bias
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance personal desires with universal good?
- When does self-interest become harmful?
A Different Perspective
Idealism may clash with practical realities.