Character Quote by Joe Abercrombie
““Inquisitor Lorsen's thin lip curled. "There is truly nothing in you of what separates man from animal, is there? You are bereft of conscience. An utter absence of morality. You have no principle beyond the selfish." Cosca's face hardened as he leaned forwards. "Perhaps when you have faced as many disappointments and suffered as many betrayals as I, you will see it - there is no principle beyond the selfish, Inquisitor, and men are animals. Conscience is a burden we choose to bear. Morality is the lie we tell ourselves to make its bearing easier. There have been many times in my life when I have wished it was not so. But it is so.””
About This Quote
Source Novel: The First Law series, 2006
Human nature is fundamentally selfish; morality is a construct we adopt for social convenience, not an innate principle.
In simple terms: People act out of self‑interest; morals are chosen, not given.
Key Takeaway
Question the origins of your moral beliefs.
Themes
human nature
morality
selfishness
philosophy
existentialism
Mood
thoughtful
skeptical
Type
philosophical
provocative
When to use this quote
- personal decision making
- leadership
- conflict resolution
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
self‑interest
social contract
ethical relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you believe morality is innate or learned?
- Can selfish motives coexist with altruistic actions?
A Different Perspective
Moral frameworks can foster cooperation despite selfish instincts.
