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To make others less happy is a crime. To make ourselves…

“To make others less happy is a crime. To make ourselves unhappy is where all crime starts. We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try.” quote by Roger Ebert
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““To make others less happy is a crime. To make ourselves unhappy is where all crime starts. We must try to contribute joy to the world. That is true no matter what our problems, our health, our circumstances. We must try.””

Roger Ebert

About This Quote

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

Causing others' unhappiness is harmful; personal unhappiness is the root of all harm.

In simple terms: Harming others is a crime; self‑harm is the source.

Key Takeaway

Spread joy, avoid causing pain.

Themes

ethics joy humanity

Mood

optimistic empathetic

Type

ethical motivational

When to use this quote

  • workplace
  • family
  • social media

Key Concepts

moral responsibility psychology of happiness

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you contribute joy today?
  • What prevents you from spreading happiness?
A Different Perspective

Joy can be fleeting; sustaining it is challenging.

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