Bears Quote by Frederick William Robertson
“The truest definition of evil is that which represents it as something contrary to nature; evil is evil because it is unnatural; a vine which should bear olive-berries, an eye to which blue seems yellow, would be diseased; an unnatural mother, an unnatural son, an unnatural act, are the strongest terms of condemnation.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Nature of Evil, 1850s
Evil is defined as that which opposes natural order, seen as a corruption or perversion of what is normal.
In simple terms: Evil is something that goes against nature.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and correct unnatural actions.
Themes
morality
nature
evil
corruption
Mood
critical
thoughtful
serious
Type
theological
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- environmental exploitation
- genetic engineering
- cultural taboos
- unjust laws
Key Concepts
natural law
ethical deviation
philosophical theology
Questions to Reflect On
- What determines what is 'natural' in ethics?
- Can something deemed unnatural be beneficial?
A Different Perspective
Labeling as 'unnatural' can oversimplify complex moral issues.
![“The rationale which accompanies that imposition of male authority euphemistically referred to as 'the battle of the sexes' bears a certain resemblance to the formulas of nations at war, where any heinousness is justified on the grounds that the enemy is either an inferior [part of the] species or…” quote by Kate Millett](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/895/kate-millett-7301_accompany_the-rationale-which-accompanies-that-imp_8896.jpg)
