Atheism Quote by Eric Hoffer
“There is a powerful craving in most of us to see ourselves as instruments in the hands of others and thus free ourselves from the responsibility for acts which are prompted by our own questionable inclinations and impulses.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The True Believer, 1951
People often escape personal responsibility by seeing themselves as tools of others, allowing them to avoid confronting their own motives and impulses.
In simple terms: Avoiding responsibility by blaming others.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate personal accountability and self‑awareness.
Themes
responsibility
self‑deception
agency
psychology
social influence
Mood
critical
insightful
philosophical
Type
ethical
psychological
motivational
When to use this quote
- self‑assessment
- coaching
- ethical training
- group discussions
Key Concepts
free will
moral agency
psychological projection
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we sometimes prefer being used over taking charge?
- How can we recognize and own our impulses?
A Different Perspective
Externalizing blame can hinder growth and lead to manipulation.
