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To think ill of mankind and not wish ill to them, is…

“To think ill of mankind and not wish ill to them, is perhaps the highest wisdom and virtue.” quote by William Hazlitt
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“To think ill of mankind and not wish ill to them, is perhaps the highest wisdom and virtue.”

William Hazlitt

About This Quote

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

Wishing no harm to others despite negative thoughts reflects deep moral wisdom.

In simple terms: Avoid wishing harm on others.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate compassion even when critical.

Themes

ethics compassion wisdom

Mood

thoughtful serene

Type

ethical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • interpersonal conflict
  • social media discourse
  • political debate
  • workplace tension

Key Concepts

virtue human nature empathy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you practice goodwill toward adversaries?
  • What limits compassion have you faced?
A Different Perspective

Hard to maintain compassion in hostile environments.

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