Adults Quote by George Bernard Shaw
“Affection between adults - if they are really adult in mind and not merely grown up children - and creatures so relatively selfish and cruel as children necessarily are without knowing it or meaning it, cannot be called natural.”
About This Quote
Source Play: Man and Superman, 1903
Adult affection that is truly mature cannot be natural when directed toward inherently selfish, cruel children.
In simple terms: Mature love isn’t natural with selfish children.
Key Takeaway
Recognize maturity in relationships.
Themes
maturity
affection
human nature
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
philosophical
analytical
When to use this quote
- parenting
- romantic relationships
- friendship
- mentorship
Key Concepts
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you differentiate genuine maturity from childish behavior?
- Can love be truly natural without selfishness?
A Different Perspective
Children’s innate selfishness may distort adult affection.
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
