Skip to content

Despised Quote by Leo Tolstoy

“As often happens between people who have chosen different ways, each of them, while rationally justifying the other's activity, despised it in his heart. To each of them it seemed that the life he led was the only real life, and the one his friend led was a mere illusion.” quote by Leo Tolstoy
Download Open image
““As often happens between people who have chosen different ways, each of them, while rationally justifying the other's activity, despised it in his heart. To each of them it seemed that the life he led was the only real life, and the one his friend led was a mere illusion.””

Leo Tolstoy

About This Quote

Source Novel: Anna Karenina, 1877

People rationalize others' choices while secretly dismissing them, believing only their own path is real.

In simple terms: We judge others while defending our own view.

Key Takeaway

Recognize bias in judgment.

Themes

perception judgment subjectivity human nature

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical reflective

When to use this quote

  • interpersonal conflict
  • ethical debates
  • personal relationships

Key Concepts

cognitive bias philosophical relativism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you practice empathy?
  • What assumptions do you hold about others?
A Different Perspective

It can hinder empathy and understanding.

4.2 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Leo Tolstoy

Explore all 1,754 Leo Tolstoy quotes

More Despised quotes

Browse all 319 Despised quotes