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Amusement Quote by Albert Schweitzer

“What does Reverence for Life say abut the relations between [humanity] and the animal world? Whenever I injury any kind of life I must be quite certain that it is necessary. I must never go beyond the unavoidable, not even in apparently insignificant things. The farmer who has mowed down a…” quote by Albert Schweitzer
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“What does Reverence for Life say abut the relations between [humanity] and the animal world? Whenever I injury any kind of life I must be quite certain that it is necessary. I must never go beyond the unavoidable, not even in apparently insignificant things. The farmer who has mowed down a thousand flowers in his meadow in order to feed his cows must be careful on his way home not to strike the head off a single flower by the side of the road in idle amusement, for he thereby infringes on the law of life without being under the pressure of necessity.”

Albert Schweitzer

About This Quote

Source Book: Reverence for Life by Albert Schweitzer, 1951

Every action that harms living beings must be justified by necessity; avoid unnecessary harm even in small acts.

In simple terms: Only necessary harm is permissible.

Key Takeaway

Act responsibly toward all life.

Themes

ethics respect for life environmental stewardship

Mood

thoughtful concerned reflective

Type

philosophical ethical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • farming practices
  • daily choices
  • consumer habits
  • medical decisions

Key Concepts

Moral philosophy interconnectedness non‑violence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What counts as “necessary” harm?
  • How can we assess the impact of small actions?
A Different Perspective

Balancing necessity with compassion can be complex and subjective.

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