Crush Quote by John Stuart Mill
“It is part of the irony of life that the strongest feelings of devoted gratitude of which human nature seems to be susceptible, are called forth in human beings towards those who, having the power entirely to crush their earthly existence, voluntarily refrain from using that power.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: On Liberty, 1859
Gratitude often arises toward those who could harm us but choose not to.
In simple terms: We thank those who spare us from harm.
Key Takeaway
Appreciate restraint and mercy.
Themes
ethics
gratitude
power
Mood
contemplative
serious
Type
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- politics
- personal relationships
- leadership
Key Concepts
moral restraint
human nature
compassion
Questions to Reflect On
- When have you felt gratitude toward someone with power over you?
- What limits gratitude for unearned kindness?
A Different Perspective
Not all power is exercised; gratitude can be complex.
![“[For people] to refuse a hearing to an opinion, because they are sure that it is false, is to assume that their certainty is the same thing as absolute certainty. All silencing of discussion is an assumption of infallibility.” quote by John Stuart Mill](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/c53/john-stuart-mill-477_doubt_for-people-to-refuse-a-hearing-to-an-opi_63929.jpg)
