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Human nature Quote by Eleanor Catton

“Suffering, he thought later, could rob a man of his empathy, could turn him selfish, could make him depreciate all other sufferers.” quote by Eleanor Catton
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““Suffering, he thought later, could rob a man of his empathy, could turn him selfish, could make him depreciate all other sufferers.””

Eleanor Catton

About This Quote

Source Novel: “The Luminaries” by Eleanor Catton, 2013

Suffering can erode empathy, fostering selfishness and diminishing concern for others.

In simple terms: Suffering may make people less caring.

Key Takeaway

Guard against letting pain isolate you.

Themes

empathy selfishness humanity

Mood

reflective somber

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • personal loss
  • health crises
  • conflict resolution
  • community support

Key Concepts

psychology ethical decay

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does personal pain affect your view of others?
  • What practices help maintain empathy during hardship?
A Different Perspective

Empathy can be restored through conscious effort and connection.

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