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It is confidently expected that the period is at hand…

“It is confidently expected that the period is at hand, when man, through ignorance, shall not much longer inflict unnecessary misery on man; because the mass of mankind will become enlightened, and will clearly discern that by so acting they will inevitably create misery to themselves.” quote by Robert Owen
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“It is confidently expected that the period is at hand, when man, through ignorance, shall not much longer inflict unnecessary misery on man; because the mass of mankind will become enlightened, and will clearly discern that by so acting they will inevitably create misery to themselves.”

Robert Owen

About This Quote

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

Human ignorance causes suffering; enlightenment will reveal that harming others harms ourselves.

In simple terms: Ignorance leads to misery; knowledge prevents it.

Key Takeaway

Promote education to reduce suffering.

Themes

social justice education humanity

Mood

hopeful urgent

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • political activism
  • community building

Key Concepts

enlightenment self‑interest collective welfare

Questions to Reflect On

  • What steps can societies take toward enlightenment?
  • How does self‑interest align with collective good?
A Different Perspective

Education alone may not change entrenched behaviors.

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