Criticism Quote by David L. Conroy
““When we criticize the suicidal for being selfish, we are actually criticizing them for not enduring their pain with grace and good manners. These are nice qualities; we may be correct to reproach average citizens for not having them. But to expect everyone in pain to have them is unrealistic. Bearing pain quietly is what moralists call a supererogatory act--an act that is above the call of duty. Expecting everyone to who is suicidal to behave in a way that is morally above average is simply abusive.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Ethics of Suicide, 2015
Criticizing suicidal people for selfishness unfairly expects them to endure pain with grace, a supererogatory moral standard that is unrealistic and abusive.
In simple terms: Expecting impossible moral behavior from those in pain is abusive.
Key Takeaway
Show compassion, not judgment.
Themes
ethics
mental health
empathy
judgment
Mood
empathetic
critical
Type
ethical
analytical
When to use this quote
- clinical counseling
- support groups
- public policy
Key Concepts
supererogatory duty
moral expectations
psychological distress
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we support suicidal individuals without moralizing?
- What alternative frameworks respect their suffering?
A Different Perspective
May overlook personal agency and context.
