Comfortable Quote by Charles Dickens
“When men are about to commit, or sanction the commission of some injustice, it is not uncommon for them to express pity for the object either of that or some parallel proceeding, and to feel themselves, at the time, quite virtuous and moral, and immensely superior to those who express no pity at all. This is a kind of upholding of faith above works, and is very comfortable.”
About This Quote
Source Novel: Hard Times, 1854
Critiques moral self‑satisfaction of those who pity victims, exposing hypocrisy in virtue signaling
In simple terms: Feeling superior by pitying others is a false moral comfort
Key Takeaway
Beware of self‑righteousness that avoids real action
Themes
hypocrisy
morality
social justice
virtue signaling
Mood
critical
reflective
Type
literary
philosophical
When to use this quote
- charitable work
- policy making
- activism
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
ethical theory
psychology of empathy
social critique
Questions to Reflect On
- How does pity differ from solidarity?
- What actions replace empty moralizing?
A Different Perspective
Such attitudes can prevent effective help and perpetuate injustice
