Ants Quote by Bertrand Russell
“Ants and savages put strangers to death.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: "The Conquest of Happiness", 1930
Human societies can be brutal, treating outsiders with extreme violence regardless of civilization level.
In simple terms: Savage behavior can appear even among so-called civilized peoples.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate empathy and protect vulnerable outsiders.
Themes
violence
human nature
civilization
othering
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- human rights advocacy
- conflict resolution
- education programs
- community building
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do societies dehumanize strangers?
- How can we foster universal compassion?
A Different Perspective
Changing deep‑seated prejudice is difficult and slow.
![“If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign that you are subsciously aware of having no good reason for thinking as you do. [...] The most savage controversies are those about matters as to which there is no good evidence either way. Persecution is used in theology, not in…” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/d41/bertrand-russell-69_angry_if-an-opinion-contrary-to-your-own-makes_997355.jpg)
![“If the State does not acquire supremacy over [vast private] enterprises, it becomes their puppet, and they become the real State.” quote by Bertrand Russell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/bad/bertrand-russell-69_acquire_if-the-state-does-not-acquire-supremacy_1379.jpg)
