Character Quote by Arthur Schopenhauer
“Nothing shocks our moral feelings so deeply as cruelty does. We can forgive every other crime, but not cruelty. The reason for this is that it is the very opposite of compassion.”
About This Quote
Source Philosophy: The World as Will and Representation, Arthur Schopenhauer, 1818
Cruelty triggers the deepest moral revulsion because it directly opposes compassion, making it uniquely unforgivable among crimes.
In simple terms: Cruelty wounds moral core.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate compassion, reject cruelty.
Themes
ethics
compassion
cruelty
morality
Mood
serious
reflective
determined
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- legal systems
- education
- personal relationships
- social policy
Key Concepts
philosophy
human nature
empathy
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions embody true compassion?
- How can societies deter cruelty?
A Different Perspective
Complex crimes may also be deeply harmful.
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