Dangerous Quote by Arthur Hugh Clough
“Idonot likebeingmoved:for thewill isexcited;andaction Is a most dangerous thing: I tremble for something factitious, Some malpractice of heart and illegitimate process; We are so proneto thesethings with our terrible notions of duty.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Unknown, 19th century poetry
The quote warns that reckless passion and misplaced duty can lead to dangerous, artificial emotions and unethical actions.
In simple terms: Blind zeal and false duty cause harm.
Key Takeaway
Beware blind zeal and false duty.
Themes
duty
emotion
danger
ethics
Mood
cautious
reflective
Type
cautionary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- political activism
- personal relationships
- career decisions
Key Concepts
psychology
morality
self‑control
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish genuine duty from false expectations?
- What safeguards can prevent reckless zeal?
A Different Perspective
Blind passion can be manipulated by others.
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