Badness Quote by C. S. Lewis
“Badness cannot succeed even in being bad in the same way in which goodness is good. Goodness is, so to speak, itself: badness is only spoiled goodness. Evil is a parasite, not an original thing.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Screwtape Letters, 1942
Goodness is inherent, while badness is merely corrupted goodness; evil is a parasite, not a primary force.
In simple terms: Goodness is original; evil is corrupted goodness.
Key Takeaway
Seek and nurture true goodness.
Themes
morality
good vs evil
philosophy
Mood
thoughtful
serious
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- theology
- ethical debates
- personal growth
- literature
Key Concepts
original goodness
corruption
parasitic evil
Questions to Reflect On
- Can evil ever be truly independent?
- How does recognizing evil as corruption change moral choices?
