Capable Quote by Elie Wiesel
“I think that human beings are capable of the worst things possible and they show that there were times, and there probably are times, that it is human to be inhuman.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Nobel Peace Prize Acceptance, 1986
Human nature can express extreme cruelty, and such inhumanity recurs throughout history.
In simple terms: People can act terribly, and it repeats.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and counteract cruelty.
Themes
human nature
morality
history
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- war crimes
- genocide denial
- systemic oppression
- personal bias
Key Concepts
evil
dehumanization
ethical failure
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we prevent cycles of cruelty?
- What personal actions can foster humanity?
A Different Perspective
Even if inhuman acts are common, individuals can choose compassion.
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![“[The Community's] crosses and trials give me confidence. But I derive my hope above all, and most especially, from our utter incapacity, for it is always upon nothingness that God is pleased to rear His works. If at any day we accomplish some good here, the glory will certainly be His alone, since…” quote by Theodore Guerin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2b8/theodore-guerin-54729_accomplish_the-community-s-crosses-and-trials-give_7176.jpg)
