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Choices Quote by Erich Fromm

“That man can destroy life is just as miraculous a feat as that he can create it, for life is the miracle, the inexplicable. In the act of destruction, man sets himself above life; he transcends himself as a creature. Thus, the ultimate choice for a man, inasmuch as he is driven to transcend…” quote by Erich Fromm
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“That man can destroy life is just as miraculous a feat as that he can create it, for life is the miracle, the inexplicable. In the act of destruction, man sets himself above life; he transcends himself as a creature. Thus, the ultimate choice for a man, inasmuch as he is driven to transcend himself, is to create or to destroy, to love or to hate.”

Erich Fromm

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Art of Loving” (1966)

Human power to create or destroy reflects a deep moral choice; embracing creation aligns with life's inherent miracle.

In simple terms: Choose creation over destruction, honoring life's mystery.

Key Takeaway

Prefer creation, reject destruction.

Themes

ethics human nature choice

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical ethical

When to use this quote

  • personal decisions
  • leadership
  • conflict resolution
  • artistic work

Key Concepts

creation destruction love hate

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives your creative impulses?
  • How do you resist destructive urges?
A Different Perspective

Might oversimplify complex moral contexts.

2.7 out of 5 (9 ratings)

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