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Amusement Quote by Halldór Laxness

“Of all the creatures that man kills for his amusement there is only one that he kills out of hatred—other men. Man hates nothing as much as himself. That is why war is called the leprosy of the human soul.” quote by Halldór Laxness
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“Of all the creatures that man kills for his amusement there is only one that he kills out of hatred—other men. Man hates nothing as much as himself. That is why war is called the leprosy of the human soul.”

Halldór Laxness

About This Quote

Source Novel: Independent People, 1940

War is a disease of humanity, rooted in self‑hatred and the killing of others for amusement.

In simple terms: War stems from self‑hatred and killing for fun.

Key Takeaway

Recognize war’s dehumanizing nature.

Themes

war human nature violence

Mood

somber critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • conflict resolution
  • peace activism
  • education

Key Concepts

philosophy psychology

Questions to Reflect On

  • What drives humans to kill for amusement?
  • How can societies reduce self‑hatred?
A Different Perspective

Addressing self‑hatred is complex.

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