Brutes Quote by John Flavel
“We are not distinguished from brutes by our senses, but by our understanding.”
About This Quote
Source Sermon: The Nature of Humanity, 1650
Human distinction lies not in sensory ability but in the capacity to understand, implying moral and intellectual superiority over animals.
In simple terms: Understanding sets humans apart from beasts.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate deeper understanding.
Themes
human nature
intellect
morality
Mood
thoughtful
inspirational
Type
theological
philosophical
When to use this quote
- education
- ethical leadership
- critical thinking
- spiritual practice
Key Concepts
philosophy
theology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we improve our understanding?
- What responsibilities come with this distinction?
A Different Perspective
Understanding can be limited by bias.
![“In this primitive and abject state [of hunters and gatherers], which ill deserves the name of society, the human brute, without arts or laws, almost without sense or language, is poorly distinguished from the rest of the animal creation.” quote by Edward Gibbon](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/de0/edward-gibbon-710_animal_in-this-primitive-and-abject-state-of-hu_2722444.jpg)
![“All the dark, intricate, puzzling providences at which we were sometimes so offended...we shall [one day] see to be to us, as the difficult passage through the wilderness was to Israel, "the right way to the city of habitation".” quote by John Flavel](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/58c/john-flavel-4295_christian_all-the-dark-intricate-puzzling-providen_333825.jpg)
