Animals Quote by Doris Lessing
““For these creatures(humans) are for the most part malevolent and murderous by nature, able to tolerate others only insofar as they resemble themselves, capable of slaughtering each other because of a slight difference in skin colour or appearance. Also, they cannot tolerate those who do not think as they do. Although they know perfectly well, theoretically, that the surface of the inhabited globe is divided into thousands of areas each with it system of religious or scientific belief, and although they know that it is entirely by chance that any individual among them was born into this area or that area, this or that area of belief, this theoretical knowledge does not prevent them from hating foreigners in their own particular small area, and if not harming them, isolating them in every way possible.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: “The Four-Gated City” (1972) excerpt
She critiques humanity’s innate violence and intolerance, noting that knowledge of diversity does not prevent hatred toward outsiders.
In simple terms: People are naturally hostile to those different from themselves, despite understanding diversity.
Key Takeaway
Challenge prejudice by confronting deep‑seated biases.
Themes
human nature
prejudice
diversity
Mood
somber
thoughtful
Type
social
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education reform
- community building
- intercultural programs
Key Concepts
violence
in‑group bias
social identity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies move beyond theoretical tolerance?
- What actions reduce deep‑rooted hostility?
A Different Perspective
Changing attitudes requires more than awareness; systemic change is needed.
