Character Quote by Charles Dickens
“Fledgeby deserved Mr. Alfred Lammle's eulogium. He was the meanest cur existing, with a single pair of legs. And instinct (a word we all clearly understand) going largely on four legs, and reason always on two, meanness on four legs never attains the perfection of meanness on two.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: The Tale of Two Cities, 1859
Human cruelty is more refined when exercised by intellect rather than brute force, suggesting moral corruption is heightened by reason.
In simple terms: Intelligent cruelty is worse than animal cruelty.
Key Takeaway
Beware rationalized cruelty.
Themes
morality
intellect
human nature
ethics
power
Mood
critical
thought‑provoking
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- leadership
- legal systems
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does reason justify cruelty?
- Can intellect be used to prevent harm?
A Different Perspective
Intellect can also foster empathy and justice.
