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Animal Quote by Georges Cuvier

“In spite of what moralists say, the, animals are scarcely less wicked or less unhappy than we are ourselves. The arrogance of the strong, the servility of the weak, low rapacity, ephemeral pleasure purchased by great effort, death preceded by long suffering, all belong to the animals as they do to…” quote by Georges Cuvier
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“In spite of what moralists say, the, animals are scarcely less wicked or less unhappy than we are ourselves. The arrogance of the strong, the servility of the weak, low rapacity, ephemeral pleasure purchased by great effort, death preceded by long suffering, all belong to the animals as they do to men.”

Georges Cuvier

About This Quote

Source Book: Le Règne Animal, 1817

Human and animal nature share similar vices and suffering, showing moral equivalence across species.

In simple terms: Animals and humans both experience vice and pain.

Key Takeaway

Recognize shared flaws across beings.

Themes

morality human nature animal behavior

Mood

reflective somber

Type

analytical philosophical

When to use this quote

  • animal research
  • ethical debates
  • personal reflection
  • social policy

Key Concepts

philosophy ethics comparative psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does recognizing animal suffering affect our ethical choices?
  • Can we justify different treatment of animals?
A Different Perspective

Animals may have different capacities for moral reasoning.

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