Men must have somewhat altered the course of nature; for…
“Men must have somewhat altered the course of nature; for they were not born wolves, yet they have become wolves. God did not give them twenty-four-pounders or bayonets, yet they have made themselves bayonets and guns to destroy each other. In the same category I place not only bankruptcies, but the law which carries off the bankrupts’ effects, so as to defraud their creditors.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Humans, though not naturally savage, create tools of destruction, turning society into a battlefield where law and finance become weapons.
In simple terms: People become their own monsters.
Key Takeaway
Beware self‑inflicted harm.
Themes
human nature
violence
law
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
political
When to use this quote
- war
- economic crises
- legal systems
- technological arms
Key Concepts
philosophy
political critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Can we change our self‑destructive path?
- What role does law play in protecting society?
A Different Perspective
The metaphor may oversimplify complex social dynamics.