Approval Quote by Mark Twain
“What do we call love, hate, charity, revenge, humanity, forgiveness? Different results of the master impulse, the necessity of securing one's self-approval.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Innocents Abroad, 1869
Emotions are variations of a core self‑approval drive, shaping moral categories.
In simple terms: Our feelings stem from seeking self‑approval.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the self‑approval motive.
Themes
psychology
ethics
human behavior
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- interpersonal conflict
- moral reasoning
- personal growth
Key Concepts
self‑determination theory
social identity
Questions to Reflect On
- What impulses drive your judgments of others?
- Can self‑approval be aligned with altruism?
A Different Perspective
Not all emotions are purely self‑serving.
