Feeling good Quote by J.M. Coetzee
““Anyway, said Robert, they got a big fright. After that they started dropping pellets in the water and digging latrines and spraying for flies and bringing buckets of soap. But do you think they do it because they love us? Not a hope. They prefer it that we live because we look too terrible when we get sick and die. If we grew thin and turned into paper and then into ash and floated away, they wouldn't give a stuff for us. They just don't want to get upset. They want to go to sleep feeling good.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Disgrace by J.M. Coetzee, 1999
People act out of self‑preservation, not love; they maintain order to avoid discomfort.
In simple terms: They help because it’s convenient, not caring.
Key Takeaway
Recognize hidden motives behind aid.
Themes
self‑interest
human behavior
morality
Mood
cynical
reflective
Type
observational
critical
When to use this quote
- healthcare policy
- community support
- personal relationships
Key Concepts
psychology
social dynamics
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we assume generosity is genuine?
- How can we protect ourselves from manipulative care?
A Different Perspective
Aid may be conditional and self‑serving.
