We wonder at good things, are appalled by evil. What's…
““We wonder at good things, are appalled by evil. What's wondering got in common with being appalled? That strange combination, that surprise duet of disbelief and acknowledgement. You can't believe that any human being would open up with an assault gun in a trolley, but look over there--right there!--there's somebody doing it.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
It highlights the paradox of awe for good and horror for evil, showing how disbelief and recognition coexist when confronting extreme violence.
In simple terms: Good inspires wonder; evil shocks.
Key Takeaway
Recognize both emotions to understand moral complexity.
Themes
morality
psychology
violence
disbelief
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
reflective
When to use this quote
- news reporting
- public debates
- personal moral dilemmas
- media coverage
Key Concepts
cognitive dissonance
ethical reflection
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we balance awe and horror in ethical judgments?
- Can recognizing this tension improve societal responses?
A Different Perspective
Human nature often resists reconciling admiration with revulsion, limiting empathy.