Pity is not natural to man. Children and savages are…
“Pity is not natural to man. Children and savages are always cruel. Pity is acquired and improved by the cultivation of reason. We may have uneasy sensations from seeing a creature in distress, without pity; but we have not pity unless we wish to relieve him.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Pity is not innate; it develops through rational reflection and a desire to alleviate suffering.
In simple terms: Pity is learned through reason.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy via thoughtful reflection.
Themes
ethics
human nature
empathy
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- charitable work
- conflict resolution
- personal growth
- education
- caregiving
Key Concepts
philosophy
moral psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What rational arguments strengthen compassion?
- Can reason alone motivate helping others?
A Different Perspective
Pity can be suppressed by self‑interest.