Cruelty practiced as a matter of social principle or…
“Cruelty practiced as a matter of social principle or public policy, and presented to the community as a means to a higher goal is the most obscene and decadent phenomenon of any civilization.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote condemns using cruelty as a justified means to achieve higher goals, labeling it as a degenerate practice of civilization
In simple terms: Cruelty disguised as noble purpose is corrupt
Key Takeaway
Reject cruelty as a means to any end
Themes
ethics
civilization
morality
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- political policy
- legal frameworks
- educational curricula
Key Concepts
philosophy
social critique
human rights
Questions to Reflect On
- Is any goal worth immoral means?
- How can societies prevent cruelty under moral pretexts?
A Different Perspective
Idealism can overlook practical harm