Charity Quote by Herman Melville
“Aside from higher considerations, charity often operates as a vastly wise and prudent principle-a great safeguard to its possessor. Men have committed murder for jealousy's sake, and anger's sake, and hatred's sake, and selfishness' sake, and spiritual pride's sake; but no man that ever I heard of, ever committed a diabolical murder for sweet charity's sake. Mere self-interest, then, if no better motive can be enlisted, should, especially with high-tempered men, prompt all beings to charity and philanthropy.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Moby-Dick by Herman Melville, 1851
Charity is a wise, protective principle that prevents extreme selfishness and violence, unlike motives like jealousy or hatred.
In simple terms: Charity protects against selfish harm.
Key Takeaway
Practice generosity, especially when angry.
Themes
ethics
self‑control
philanthropy
human nature
Mood
reflective
thoughtful
Type
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- conflict resolution
- personal growth
- community building
- leadership
Key Concepts
moral philosophy
social cohesion
psychology
Questions to Reflect On
- What drives your generosity?
- Can selfish motives still yield positive outcomes?
A Different Perspective
Charity may be motivated by self‑interest, not pure altruism.
