Animal instinct Quote by Austin Osman, Spare
““The difference between good and evil is a matter of profundity. Which is nearer you, self-love and its immorality or love and morals? Not conscious of desert the compeer of Heaven, and constant happiness in wisdom is the capacity of direction. From self-glorification, from self-exaltation we rise superior to the incapacity of disquieting fear: the ridiculer to destruction of humility in repentance. This "self-love" that does not give but is glad to receive is the genuine opportunity for freedom from covetousness, from the militant amusement of Heaven. He who subordinates animal instincts to reason, quickly loses control.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Difference Between Good and Evil,” 1910
He argues that true freedom comes from self‑love without selfishness, aligning love with moral virtue over egoistic desire.
In simple terms: Self‑love without selfishness leads to moral freedom.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate self‑less love.
Themes
morality
self‑love
philosophy
spirituality
freedom
Mood
reflective
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- personal growth
- spiritual practice
- ethical decision‑making
- overcoming fear of judgment
Key Concepts
ego
humility
ethical reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- Is it possible to love oneself without becoming selfish?
- How does humility interact with self‑respect?
A Different Perspective
Self‑love can become narcissistic if not balanced.
![“Go and learn what this [Scripture] means: ‘I DESIRE COMPASSION [for those in distress], AND NOT [animal] SACRIFICE,’ for I did not come to call [to repentance] the [self-proclaimed] righteous [who see no need to change], but sinners [those who recognize their sin and actively seek forgiveness].”…” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/aa2/anonymous-1_bible_go-and-learn-what-this-scripture-means-i_171280.jpg)
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