Agents Quote by Mahatma Gandhi
“Man has reason, discrimination and free-will such as it is. The brute has no such thing. It is not a free agent, and knows no distinction between virtue and vice, good and evil. Man, being a free agent, knows these distinctions, and when he follows his higher nature, shows himself far superior to the brute, but when he follows his baser nature can show himself lower than the brute.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Reflections on the Nature of Man, 1925
Man possesses rationality, moral judgment, and free will, unlike animals which act without such capacities. This ability lets humans rise above or fall below animal behavior depending on choices.
In simple terms: Humans can think, choose right or wrong; animals cannot.
Cultivate higher nature, avoid baser impulses.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- personal decision‑making
- leadership
- education
- conflict resolution
- ethical dilemmas
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you act from higher or baser nature?
- How can you strengthen rational decision‑making?
Human freedom can be constrained by social pressures and ignorance, limiting moral choices.